ML110900559
| ML110900559 | |
| Person / Time | |
|---|---|
| Site: | Vallecitos Nuclear Center, 07000754, 07001113, 07002872, 07200001, Vallecitos |
| Issue date: | 03/14/2011 |
| From: | Redo C GE-Hitachi Nuclear Energy Americas |
| To: | Office of Nuclear Material Safety and Safeguards, Office of Nuclear Reactor Regulation |
| References | |
| Download: ML110900559 (142) | |
Text
GE Hitachi Nuclear Energy HITACHI Caroline Redo President & CEO 3901 Castle Hayne Road P.O. Box 780 Wilmington, NC 28402 USA T 910 819 3900 March 14, 2011 U.S. Nuclear Regulatory Commission Director, Office of Nuclear Material Safety and Safeguards 11555 Rockville Pike Rockville, MD 20852 U.S. Nuclear Regulatory Commission Director, Office of Nuclear Reactor Regulation 11555 Rockville Pike Rockville, MD 20852
Subject:
Letter from Chief Executive.Officer, GE-Hitachi Nuclear Energy Americas, LLC in Support of General Electric Company Parent - Guarantee of Funds for Decommissioning I am the President and Chief Executive Officer of GE-Hitachi Nuclear Energy Americas, LLC. This letter is in support of this company's use of the financial test to demonstrate financial assurance for certain licenses, as specified in 10 CFR Parts 50, 70, and 72.
I hereby certify that GE-Hitachi Nuclear Energy Americas, LLC is currently a going concern and as of December 31, 2010 it possessed a positive tangible net worth in the amount of $5,400,000.
This company is not required to file a Form 10-K with the U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission.
The fiscal year end of GE-Hitachi Nuclear Energy Americas, LLC ends on December 31.
I hereby certify that the contents of this letter are true and correct to the best of my knowledge.
Yours sincerely, Caroline Redo President & CEO GE-Hitachi Nuclear Energy
Jonathan F. Masi G-jE 3135 Easton Turnpike aFairfield, CT 06828 T (203) 373-2374 F (203) 373-3342 jonothan.Mosi@ge.com March 2011 Financial Assurance
Dear Sir/Madam:
Enclosed please find documents relating to financial assurance for the General Electric Company. In the interest of the environment, GE is "Going Green" by not including a printed copy of the Company's 258 page 2010 1OK in this package. The web address is provided below for your convenience. A printed copy will be mailed to you upon request.
htto://www.ae.com/investors/financial reDortina/index.html Please direct all inquiries and responses related to it to:
Jonathan F. Masi Corporate Environmental Programs General Electric Company 3135 Easton Turnpike Fairfield, CT 06828 Jonathan.Masi@ge.com (203) 373-2374 Phone (203) 373-3342 Fax Thank you..
!1 t
PW C
Ir r'e En-ornlcl PI Og N
ro
GROWTH STARTS HERE.
4 GE 2olo Annual Report
DNTENTS to sO\\(7r 11Sý FINANCIAL AND S TRAIEGIC H GHLIGHT CONSOLIDATED REVENUES 150 EARNINGS FROM CONTINUING OPERATIONS ATTRIBUTABLE TO GE 2010 CASH FLOW FROM OPERATING ACTIVITIES 2010 Dividend*
i industrial EARNINGS GROWTH RATES 0, h2010 15%
47%
15%
RETURN TO GROWTH It scphnod executior d
I 2
1%
e G ea ing fromc otui ng oprar 20%
INVESTING IN INNOVATION ht ridiorn fuded &[ spendiro
$79B FINANCIAL FLEXIBILITY GE had $79 blln in i
cash an equ e
I I
yerend 201-,
with IlIlior in1 csh at the parent
$175B RECORD INDUSTRIAL ted BACKLOG Stron - equipment and se vice ordes dorrwth resultedin 1record
$17h billion backlog 6,300 U.S. MANUFACTURING JOBS In the post two years, Gf has arnncounced creaton of more thor 6,300 new UCS manufacturing
- hobs, many i regions hardest hit by the economic i ecession 40%
DELIVERING FOR SHAREOWNERS two dividend increcs n
2010 provided : a t0 40% improvement er sus the beginning of tho yeor 24%
TOTAL SHAREHOLDER RETURN GE total shareholder return {TS)R apprccitedl i n '010, nine percentc ge p Lt ter than the S&P 500 TS
$17B U.S. EXPORTS International sales of American-made products totaled
$17 billion in 2010, more than double the level of company U.S exports in 2001 On the cover GE's product and services offerings are aligned with human needs and growth opportunities around the world. As global population has grown over the past 118 years, GE's revenue has grown at an even faster rate Note Fnanc 1
r1 s ult0 f rom continu ig operft
LETTER TO SHAREOWNERS In the 2008 letter to shareowners, as we grappled with the worst economy since the Great Depression, we talked about a global economic reset. In 2009, we talked about GE's renewal as we established our priorities for the company in an improving global economy.
In 2010, growth resumed and our earnings expanded by 15%. GE Capital's earnings rebounded sharply. We raised the dividend twice, for a combined 40% increase. Our stock price responded well, up 21% for the year. Our aim in 2011 and beyond is to continue the progress.
Jeffrey R. Immelt Chairman of the Board &
Chief Executive Officer Michael A. Neal*
Vice Chairman, GE and Chairman & Chief Executive Officer, GE Capital Services, Inc.
Keith S. Sherin Vice Chairman, GE and Chief Financial Officer John G. Rice*
Vice Chairman, GE and President & Chief Executive Officer. Global Operations John Krenicki, Jr.
Vice Chairman, GE and President & Chief Executive Officer, Energy GE 2010 ANNUAL REPORT 1
LETTER TO SHAREOWNERS Two years ago, in the depths of the global economic collapse, I promised that GE would emerge from the recession a better company. We have. Our financial performance is accelerating.
We have extended our competitive advantage, while investing in growth. We fortified our leadership and culture.
The world we face in 2011 is getting better. We see signs of economic strength every day. It doesn't always "feel great,"
because we have entered a new economic era. Growth around the world is happening at multiple speeds. Developing markets like Brazil and India are experiencing fast growth, while much of the developed world is dealing with sluggish growth and fiscal constraints. Globally, governments are more active, as they grapple with problems ranging from high unemployment to healthcare inflation to crumbling infrastructure.
GE's value s more than the sum of its parts. GE is an innovative, advanced technology infrastructure and financial services company with the scole, resources and expertise to solve tough global problems for customers and society. We are a competitive force for change.
Volatility has become a way of life. Commodity costs are increasing as the economy recovers. Geopolitical risk is also on the rise. Disruption in countries like Egypt and Greece can now shake the global markets.
Classic economic cycles will be shorter and more segmented. Long-term growth will be interrupted by short-term volatility. In this environment, companies must invest to grow, while staying fast and productive.
We made good decisions during the crisis that are benefiting investors. We invested in GE Capital to weather the crisis and retain a strong business model. This required tough calls, like raising equity in 2008 and cutting the GE dividend in 2009. But today, we have a competitively advantaged financial services business that is rewarding investors with strong earnings growth.
We invested more in R&D each year, despite the tough economy. Our R&D spending will have grown 54% from 2008 to 2011. We invested for the long term, while cutting cost in less-essential areas. We face the future with a stronger product pipeline than at any time in our history.
We simplified the GE portfolio. We sold our Security business, completed the joint venture of NBCU with Comcast and sold some non-core assets in GE Capital. These moves generated substantial cash for GE. They give us significant financial flexibility in the global economic recovery.
Because of these actions, GE is positioned for success.
A COMPETITIVE ENTERPRISE In the 21st century companies must serve two roles. They must deliver positive returns for investors, and they must be a positive force for change. GE does both.
GE's value is more than the sum of its parts. GE is an innovative, advanced technology infrastructure and financial services company with the scale, resources and expertise to solve tough global problems for customers and society. We are a competitive force for change.
GE has financial strength and resilience. We ended the year with $79 billion of cash. We have kept the company safe through volatile times. Our business model allows us to invest in growth and generate free cash flow at the same time.
We innovate on a large scale. More than half the planes in the world have GE engines. Jet engines are a technical and manufacturing masterpiece. We have invested more than
$10 billion in R&D over the post decade to serve our military and commercial aviation customers, Our new engines are substantially more fuel-efficient than the ones they replace.
We track thousands of engine performance parameters while they are in service and use that information to improve our customers' performance. Our ability to execute large-scale innovation is based on GE's technical depth and scale.
This capability is unmatched and creates customer satisfaction, employee pride and financial performance. There are very few companies on earth who do what we do.
We make globalization "work" for employees, customers, governments and investors. Nearly 60% of our revenue will come from sales outside the U.S. in 2011 and this will grow over time. GE is a reliable partner and global investor, with a culture of compliance. We are a leading American exporter. Last year, we created major ventures in China and Russia that will accelerate 2 GE 2010 ANNUAL REPORT
LETTER TO SHAREOWNERS FINANCIAL STRENGTH LARGE-SCALE INNOVATION SAFE GLOBAL INVESTOR COMPETITIVE CULTURE CATALYST FOR CHANGE LEADERSHIP PORTFOLIO 10ý GE is an innovative, high-tech infrastructure and financial services l
company that solves tough global challenges for customers & society, while delivering world-class performance.
our growth in Energy, Aviation, Healthcare and Transportation and supply important infrastructure in those countries. GE's unique breadth and compliant culture are massive advantages in globalization.
We know how to compete, manufacture and execute. We have a strong culture of productivity and risk management.
We constantly share ideas across GE on processes to improve performance. We have reduced our manufacturing cycle time and boosted productivity. We have been able to invest in the United States even as we have globalized. Since 2009, we have announced 6,300 new American manufacturing jobs.
At the same time, we are building capability around the world.
We are prepared for a future fueled by human innovation, not cheap labor.
We are a catalyst for change-change that benefits our customers and society. We have had a long-term focus on clean energy through our ecomagination initiative. Last year, when it was clear that U.S. energy policy would remain uncertain, we continued to invest. One focus was to lead in Smart Grid development. To that end, we announced plans to order 25,000 electric vehicles (EVs)-the largest such purchase in history. By so doing, we took a large step toward building EV infrastructure based on GE technology. In addition, we hosted a "Smart Grid Challenge," where we solicited ideas for clean-energy solutions. More than 4,000 ideas were submitted, and we funded 20 startup companies and entrepreneurs who will extend our leadership in energy efficiency.
Some people remain cynical about business. And we live in an era where anger often trumps optimism. Despite this, GE has remained a competitive growth company; a positive force for change.
FNNALPUCFOlANCE tSACCL.ERA~TNG Our earnings growth should exceed the growth in the S&P 500.
We are committed to a dividend yield that is attractive relative to our peers and other investments. We have more cash and lower leverage than our historical average. We will improve our earnings quality, which is associated with above-market valuation.
Earnings growth resumed in 2010 and should continue in 2011.
As we predicted last year, GE Capital's earnings are rebounding rapidly. It earned $3.3 billion, more than twice than in 2009.
And that positive course should continue in 2011. We remain committed to a smaller, more focused GE Capital. We look for significant earnings growth over the next few years.
The landscape for financial services has changed.
GE Capital-like others in financial services-will be more highly regulated. We have been preparing for this outcome for the past two years and are ready for the new regulatory environment.
For example, our Tier 1 capital, an important measure of financial strength, is close to 9%, already above the "well capitalized level" set currently by regulators at 6%.
GE 2010 ANNUAL REPORT 3
LETTER TO SHAREOWNERS Our Infrastructure earnings were about $14 billion in 2010.
While flat with 2009. these earnings will grow in 2011 and beyond as the global economy strengthens. We outperformed our competitors during the financial crisis, with earnings about flat from 2008 to 2010, while theirs declined 15%. Our stability was a function of a strong service model that performed for customers and investors.
Our Infrastructure businesses are well positioned for long-term growth because we have leadership franchises and compete in attractive markets. Global investment in infrastructure is expected to be $4 trillion by 2015. GE has leadership franchises in Energy, Oil & Gas, Water, Healthcare, Aviation, Transportation and Consumer products.
Over time, we look to sustain organic growth in excess of the global economy, with high margins and returns. Our Infrastructure businesses are capital-efficient, and we generate a substantial amount of cash in excess of investment needs.
In our key operating metrics, we are in the top quartile of our industrial peers. At nearly $100 billion in revenue, we are one of the biggest Infrastructure companies in the world, and we are certainly the most profitable.
Balanced and disciplined capital allocation is a key responsibility for the Board and your leadership team. We ended the year with $19 billion of cash at the GE parent. Maintaining an attractive dividend is the top priority. We believe that a high-yielding dividend appeals to the majority of our investors and is particularly attractive in a low interest rate environment.
We have announced five acquisitions in the last six months, totaling about $8 billion, that will accelerate our growth in Infrastructure. We will be disciplined in our acquisitions. They will increase our competitiveness in industries we know well.
We target investments in the $500 million-to $3 billion-range with returns that exceed our cost of capital. In this way, we reward GE investors as we scale up these investments.
We will continue to buy back our shares, including the preferred stock we issued during the financial crisis in 2008.
We will be opportunistic about buying back our own stock based on returns but plan to reduce our float over time.
We have reduced GE's risk profile, as we navigated through the crisis. We hold substantial cash on our balance sheet, have cut our commercial paper by 60% and have reduced our leverage from 8:1 to 5:1. We believe the most difficult losses in financial services are behind us. We recorded charges of more than $3 billion to address risk related to the environmental cleanup of the Hudson River and the consumer "Grey Zone" claims for financial services in Japan. We have changed our employee healthcare and pension plans to be more competitive over the long term. Looking forward, we have dramatically reduced GE's vulnerability to "tail risk" events.
We ended the year with $19 billion of cash at the GE parent. Maintaining an attractive dividend is the top priority. We believe that a high-yielding dividend appeals to the majority of our investors and is particularly attractive in a low interest rate environment.
GE's earnings quality will continue to improve. Our goal is to maintain Infrastructure earnings between 60% and 70%
of GE's earnings. Our tax rate increased in 2010 and will grow substantially in 2011. These elements should create a more valuable GE.
There are a few things we are working on in 2011 that should help build momentum for the future. Our financial strength in GE Capital should put us in a position to pay a dividend to the parent in 2012. We worry about inflation and have increased resources on material productivity and pricing to offset that threat. We are in a particularly heavy period of R&D investment in Aviation that will keep its earnings flat this year. However, Aviation has a record high backlog and its earnings growth should return by 2012.
The GE portfolio can perform for investors through the cycles: financial earnings surge back in the beginning of an economic cycle; service offers steady growth through the cycle; and infrastructure equipment grows later in the cycle. No matter what your investment thesis may be, the next few years look good for GE!
4 GE 2010 ANNUAL REPORT
LETTER TO SHAREOWNERS LAUNCH GROW LEAD EXPAND CREATE WE LEAD IN BIG GROWTH THEMES We have positioned the company to capitalize on some of the biggest external themes of the day, like emerging-market growth, affordable healthcare and clean energy. Internally, we treat "growth as a process" by focusing on innovation, customer needs, services and best-practice integration. We are executing six growth imperatives:
Q Launch great new products. GE's technical leadership is a function of increased investment, great people and a model for innovation. Our innovation is focused on solving big customer problems, partnerships that extend our capability and designing products across all price points. We are committed to sustaining technical investment ahead of the competition.
Our Healthcare business is indicative of the work going on across the company. We will launch 100 Healthcare innovations this year. These include important leadership products in molecular imaging and low-dose CT. We will open new segments with our hand-held ultrasound and extremity MR products.
We have focused on affordable innovation, launching high-margin products at lower price points, with dramatic growth potential in the emerging markets. We have completed a Home Health venture with Intel, featuring new proprietary products, And we are entering new markets like pathology, with automation and diagnostic tools. Long-term growth in Healthcare, like other Infrastructure markets, is driven by a deep pipeline of high-margin innovations.
Grow services and software. Services represent 70% of our
(*....................................
- S r i e Infrastructure earnings. We have a $130 billion services backlog at high margins. In 2011, our services revenue should grow between 5% and 10%. Through our contractual service agreements, we reduce our customers' cost of ownership by providing new technology and productivity to their installed base.
We have an opportunity to expand our service business.
About 90% of our service revenue is focused on the GE installed base. Meanwhile, our customers demand broader solutions. We plan to expand our presence in software into new areas in workflow, analytics and systems integration. We believe there is a $100 billion opportunity in software and services in infrastructure markets we know well.
Today, GE has $4 billion of revenue in infrastructure software in segments like healthcare information technology, Smart Grid, rail movement planners, engine monitoring and factory productivity.
By investing in these platforms we can grow rapidly and move closer to our customers.
SLea.d.n.growth market. GE has $30 billion of Industrial revenue in key global growth markets, where revenue has expanded by more than 10% annually over the last decade.
As commodity prices increase, the needs of our customers in what we segment as "resource-rich" regions grow as well.
We continue to make long-term investments to drive growth across the Middle East, Africa, Canada, Australia, Russia and Latin America. In what we segment as "rising Asia," markets like China and India, there are over one billion people joining the middle class. We plan to have an increasing number of products localized in China and India in the next few years. This will give us the right technology to satisfy our customers' needs.
GE 2010 ANNUAL REPORT 5
LETTER TO SHAREOWNERS We use the breadth of our portfolio to build strong relationships in growth markets. We call it a "Company-Country" approach. A great example of this approach is Brazil.
Last November, we announced the creation of our fifth Global Research Center, located in Rio de Janeiro. On that day, we highlighted manufacturing investments in Brazil across Energy, Oil & Gas, Healthcare, Transportation and Aviation. This broad capability gives GE the ability to better serve our customers in Brazil, while allowing us to grow exports. In addition, we are committed to training our employees, customers and suppliers.
This makes GE a leader in the economic development of the country.
(.Ex~pa.nd.from.th.ecore. In 2010, GE generated $20 billion of revenue from businesses in which we were not present in 2000.
Investing and winning in Infrastructure adjacencies is a core competency for GE. We plan to generate another $20 billion of revenue in new markets over the next decade.
To do this, we have launched more than 20 Infrastructure adjacencies and are in the process of growing them. Each can be at least $1 billion in revenue, while some will reach $10 billion or more. By expanding our core, we accelerate growth while building stronger, more diverse business models.
This year, for example, we will scale up organic investments in thin film solar energy technology. Through the efforts of our Global Research Center, our panels are generating 12+% efficiency, a record for this technology. By utilizing our huge Energy footprint, we expect to achieve a meaningful market share in the next few years. This business could reach billions in revenue.
Over time, we create large global leaders like Oil & Gas.
Here we have built a $10 billion business in about a decade, through organic investment and focused acquisitions. Oil & Gas has leveraged technical capability and global distribution from our Energy, Aviation and Healthcare businesses. Our big Oil & Gas customers know that they can count on GE to execute complex projects.
Create value in specialty finance. In 2011, a key priority is to better define the connection between GE and GE Capital. The strategic value of GE Capital is obvious: robust earnings growth; strong risk management; and cash dividends to the GE parent.
There are also key advantages that are shared by our industrial and financial capabilities. We have superior knowledge of assets; this allows us to win in aircraft leasing. We have deep and established relationships with mid-market customers, who desire better operations and best-practice sharing with GE's Industrial businesses. We have strong operating advantages versus banks in direct origination and asset management.
This builds competitive advantage in businesses like Retail Finance.
In other words, we can offer more than access to money.
GE Capital is our primary window to serve small and medium-size businesses. We partner with them and invest in their growth and success. We are steadfastly committed to GE Capital. During the crisis, our exposure to financial services was an investor concern. In the future, leadership in specialty finance will provide new ways to grow and improve our competitiveness. As a smaller, more-focused competitor, GE Capital will return excess capital to the GE parent over time.
We have launched more than 20 Infrastructure adjacencies and are in the process of growing them.
Each can be at least $1 billion in revenue, while some will reach
$10 billion or more. By expanding our core, we accelerate growth while building stronger, more diverse business models.
Solv.eproblems for customers and society. We have built the GE brand on solving tough problems like clean energy and affordable healthcare, while building deep customer relationships. We know that we can solve big societal problems and earn money at the same time. And our customers buy from GE because we help to make them more profitable.
Through our healthymagination initiative, we are addressing the cost, quality and access of healthcare. We are working with the Ministry of Health (MOH) in Saudi Arabia to improve that country's system. For example, there are joint GE/MOH teams completing "lean" projects to improve operating-room capacity and lower patient waiting time. We are pioneering in "mobile clinics" that can take healthcare to remote areas. We are bringing technical innovation and process skills to improve healthcare in Saudi Arabia and around the world.
In executing these six strategic growth imperatives, GE is leading in the capabilities that will create long-term shareholder value.
6 GE 2010 ANNUAL REPORT
LETTER TO SHAREOWNERS WE ARE DEVELOPING COMPETITIVE LEADERS There are certain fundamentals of leadership at GE that never change: a commitment to integrity, a commitment to performance and a commitment to innovation. Beyond this, as the world changes, leadership must evolve as well.
The GE leadership model has core pillars: domain competency, leadership development, team execution and global repositioning. We are constantly looking outside the company for new ideas on leadership. And we are investing more than ever to train our team.
We are developing careers that are deep first, broad second.
GE has always been a training ground for general managers.
But very little is "general" in the world today. It takes deep domain knowledge to drive results, so people will spend more time in a business or ajob. In addition,jobs like chief engineer, senior account manager, chief compliance officer and global risk leader are respected and rewarded.
We have modernized our leadership traits. We have built off the foundation we have had in place for several years: External Focus, Clear Thinking, Imagination & Courage, Inclusiveness and Expertise. Upon this foundation, we are training for attributes that will thrive in the reset world.
Leaders must execute in the face of change. Our markets are less predictable, but our teams must still be accountable.
We still expect our leaders to outperform the competition. We are doing more scenario planning, and our leaders must be smart and disciplined risk takers.
Leaders must be humble listeners. We will make bold investments and learn from our mistakes. We will stay open to inputs from all sources. We are here to work on teams and serve our customers.
Leaders must be systems thinkers. This involves the ability to share ideas across silos inside and outside the company. Internally, we have always excelled at best-practice sharing. Outside the company, systems thinking requires "horizontal" innovation, connecting technology, public policy, social trends and people across multiple GE businesses.
And we want our leaders to be scale-based entrepreneurs.
They must have a gift for making size a facilitator of growth, not o source of bureaucracy. Our unique strength is that of a fast, big company.
We have repositioned where decisions get made. Last year I asked John Rice, our most senior Vice Chairman, to move to Hong Kong and lead our global operations. Behind John, we will move more capability to the emerging markets.
Great global companies will reposition decisions and strengthen their culture. The biggest leaders-living in the growth regions-will make decisions more quickly with the benefit of experience and market knowledge.
We perform as a "connected meritocracy." In other words, the best performance wins. We want to expand this definition of meritocracy to include a view that every job counts. Senior leaders must have a better connection with front-line employees.
We live in a time where unemployment is high in every corner of the world. As a resultjobs are the real currency of reputation. Withoutjobs, confidence-and growth-lags. GE must be cost-competitive. But at the same time, we must know how to create and value front-line jobs.
We hove a strong and unified culture. Let's face it: all of the GE team has persevered through the toughest times. It made us better. I have always said that I would not be CEO of GE if I hadn't spent three years at GE Appliances in the late 1980s. This is not because it was fun, but because it was so hard. Perseverance is a source of confidence.
wmi Cometnc GE )
4oa
/i Voted #1 in Developing Leaders in 2010 Hay Group/BusinessWeek Poll SE 2010 ANNUAL REPORT 7
LETTER TO SHAREOWNERS Our ability to develop leaders continues to be recognized by the outside world. Lost year, GE was voted "number one" for developing leaders in a prestigious poll conducted by the Hay Group and BusinessWeek.
One last element of leadership is the responsibility to serve broader interests. To that end, I was asked by President Obama and have agreed to chair the President's Council on Jobs and Competitiveness. Rest assured, I will continue to work as hard as I ever have for success at GE. At the same time, I will work with other CEOs and public leaders to improve American competitiveness and innovation. I run a competitive enterprise and remain an unapologetic globalist. GE is a "private enterprise,"
with only 4% of our revenue from sales to the U.S. government.
But the world still looks to America for leadership, and I am committed to do my best to help.
LOOKING BACK AND LOOKING FORWARD I have begun my tenth year as CEO of GE. Looking back, no one could have predicted the volatile events of the last decade:
two recessions; the 9/11 tragedy; Hurricane Katrina; the world at war; the rise of the BRICS; the financial crisis; the Gulf oil spill, just to name a few.
I took over a great company, but one where we had a lot of work to do to position GE to win in the 21st century. Despite our high valuation, we were in businesses where we could not sustain a competitive advantage, like plastics and insurance. We made a capital-allocation decision to reduce our exposure to media and invest in Infrastructure. And we had to rebuild our Energy business, where most of our earnings in the late 1990s came from a "U.S. power bubble" that created a decade of excess capacity.
Our team rolled up their sleeves. Ultimately, we exited about half of our portfolio. We invested in Infrastructure businesses like oil & gas, life sciences, renewable energy, avionics, molecular medicine and water. We restored our manufacturing muscle.
And we focused and strengthened GE Capital. As a result of these actions, we have our most competitive portfolio in decades.
We made big bets in technology, globalization and customer service. We doubled our R&D spend over the past 10 years and it now equals 6% of Infrastructure revenue.
We repositioned leadership and capability to win in global growth markets. We have grown global revenue from 36% of GE's revenue to nearly 55% in the last decade. We have invested in sales force excellence, marketing and customer support.
Services have grown from 30% of GE's Infrastructure earnings to 70% in the last decade. And GE is the world's fifth most valuable brand.
We promoted a culture that demanded financial accountability and long-term thinking. Leaders understand their responsibility to invest in the future of their business. But we still compete hard. Our productivity, measured by revenue per employee, has expanded by 50% since 2000. Our Industrial margins and returns exceed other great companies like Honeywell, Siemens and United Technologies.
Despite all these changes, our cumulative earnings and cash flow over the last decade would rank in the top ten of all the companies in the world.
Being a CEO can be pretty humbling. I have made a few mistakes and learned a lot over the last decade. I am more resilient. To do this job well, you have to burn with a competitive flame that demands daily improvement. My desire has never been greater.
Repositioning GE in volatile times has demanded patience from our long-term investors. However, today we earn more money than we did when the stock traded at an all-time high.
The toughest years of my life were 2008 and 2009.
They were difficult for the company, investors and the economy as well. But our team worked hard for investors and the company. We promised you we would come out of the crisis a stronger company, and we have.
There are many reasons to invest in GE. I hove always described myself as a tough-minded optimist. I have never been more optimistic than I am today. GE's best days are ahead!
Jeffrey R. Immelt Chairman of the Board and Chief Executive Officer February 25, 2010 8 GE 2010 ANNUAL REPORT
3 jK
~ll
'4>
)~J(7 L&~T~&
~y efii
~
s
~
r C
0 GE 2010 ANNUAL REPORT 11
&es ipreseI ob o ut 7Dv 0,'-/,
infrstructure - earnings and are to ron snmfionty i to conor yers. Helpn
-t-omerS ropov oprnon, ct
- oss po fte ooepotblty is con integral portof oe Eosiness model.
12 GE 2010 ANNUAL REPORT
Customer:
Sit.:
Substation:
Health Index Risk Index:
AEP Baub,(62040) 2x 90/W100 070 KPIs Aging AMPA Amp B AMp C BaSttry Glba0l Aging 1120 0
0 0
0 0
0 0
5-1.,~
5.0411571 w
1.76..
U us 01 10"/
110H 42n0 NS 738 10 Lane" usal's
()
0 a
u 5'21 10 f.bN
-l.-
N/A aa 091-:..
WA 11:0401
A 11 f,
V V
Iy
+I i
T I
II
13M
I
IT STARTS WITH PUTTING IMAGINATION TO WORK Working across our global enterprise, GE people did remarkable things in 2010. Our passion, professionalism and perseverance working with customers, partners and each other returned GE to positive growth and an exceptional future outlook.
With over $1 billion a year invested in employee training, development facilities around the globe and 90% of leaders promoted from within, GE is proud of its legacy of leadership development.
From competitive manufacturing, groundbreaking technical innovations and world-class quality assurance, to finding valuable portfolio additions, opening markets and bringing new products online, the extended GE team is working for you.
Here are some of our stories.
EXECUTING IN THE FACE OF CHANGE MAKING STRATEGIC ACQUISITIONS A team of GE Healthcare employees coordinated our acquisition of an important new partner-Clarient, a California-based, 400-person leading player in the fast-growing molecular diagnostics sector. Combining the skills of the two companies will allow us to help pathologists and oncologists make more confident clinical decisions, bringing improvements in the quality of patient care and lowering costs. The partnership will bring GE into the next realm of diagnostic technology, accelerating our presence in cancer diagnostics, where demand is expected to grow from $15 billion today to $47 billion by 2015.
MEDICAL DIAGNOSTICS TEAM Jeff'Thomas Dove Haugen Ronnie Andrews Ger Brophy Bill Lacey Pascale Witz PIe1d.[t & Cc Ike Pellini Robert Dann 22 GE 2010 ANNUAL REPORT
GROWING FACTORY JOBS GE has been a long-standing supporter of American manufacturing.
The team at our Lynn, Massachusetts, facility represents some of the more than 45,000 GE employees who work in U.S.
manufacturing. The Lynn plant produces helicopter engines for the Sikorsky Black Hawk troop transport and jet engines for the Boeing F/A-18E/F Super Hornet fighter, among other aviation products that GE sells around the world as part of our
$17 billion-per-year in U.S. exports.
Helen Hughes
",ANUFACTUR N(
)PERAT ONS Patty Bart Stee Keliy Franc seo Holi I
C 1
) [p ttL Pntncia
,Me'ro
,d(
BiRoberts, i GE 2010 ANNUAL REPORT 23
ENGINEERING BREAK-THROUGH SOLUTIONS Technologists at GE Global Research Centers help solve tough challenges. Dave Vernooy is developing solar thin films for renewable power generation. Kristen Brosnan is researching solid oxide fuel cells for cleaner energy solutions. Wole Akinyemi is working to optimize emissions and performance of diesel engines for locomotives.
And Promeela Susarla is developing cell manufacturing tools for medical applications.
OVERSEEING PRODUCT SAFETY As Chief Engineer for GE Aviation, Jan Schilling helps ensure the safety of some of GE's most relied-upon products. A 41-year company veteran, Jan oversees product integrity, safety and airworthiness, and certification efforts at the world's leading manufacturer of jet engines for civil and military aircraft.
MANAGING AND MITIGATING RISK GE Capital's business model is defined by strong risk management and a conservative approach to financial services. As Chief Risk Officer at GE Capital, Ryan Zanin ensures the company and our customers stay "safe and secure."
With 25 years in the financial services industry specializing in risk management, Ryan helps ensure GE Capital is in full compliance with regulations while anticipating, monitoring and mitigating new risks as they emerge.
ENSURING THE HIGHEST STANDARDS OF QUALITY Quality in healthcare begins with patient safety. At GE Healthcare, we continue to build and strengthen a culture of compliance, where every employee is trained to be vigilant and dedicated to the very highest standards of quality and safety. GE's Dan Eagar, Quality Assurance Director for GE Healthcare, Surgery, is a leader in this effort and one of our many outstanding examples of GE's commitment to supporting doctors and their patients.
GE GLOBAL RESEARCH Niskayuna, New York Dove Vernooy, Ph.D.
Krnten Brosnan, Ph.D.
Ornowoeolo Aknyei, PhD0 Promeela Sus, PhD0 24 GE 2010 ANNUAL REPORT
EXPANDING ACCESS TO HEALTHCARE With the healthcare needs in China growing rapidly, GE is working to provide the types of products that millions in China need. In our Beijing facilities, GE employees-including Jinlei Chen, Wayne Zhang and Zhanfeng Xing-are developing and marketing customized products to expand access, lower cost and improve the quality of healthcare in China, especially in rural areas. Similar efforts were underscored in 2010 when the GE Healthcare factory in Wuxi doubled its manufacturing of low-cost ultrasound machines from just four years earlier.
UNLOCKING ENERGY SUPPLIES IN THE MIDDLE EAST GE's Advanced Technology and Research Center in Qatar provides the innovation necessary to access stranded natural resources that are needed to fuel our future. In Qatar, our team is working on ways to create fuel flexibility by improving combustion systems so they can handle whatever type of fuel is available. Also, our Oil & Gas team, pictured here, has partnered with Qatar Petroleum and ExxonMobil to develop the world's largest liquefied natural gas facility.
B AlasIq GE 2010 ANNUAL REPORT 25
SFSEMS f'F PARTNERING WITH CUSTOMERS An outstanding example of the power of partnerships is the collaboration between GE Aviation and Boeing, two companies with a long tradition of aerospace leadership. For the new 747-8 wide-body, Boeing and GE have combined their technical expertise and commitment to safety and quality in a single pursuit-to bring the new 747-8 Intercontinental jetliner to market.
Leading the team's efforts are Boeing's Elizabeth Lund and Pat Shanahan and GE's Chip Blankenship and Bill Fitzgerald.
PARTNERING TO DEVELOP NEW MARKETS When GE and Intel announced ajoint healthcare venture-that we believe will bring about new models of care for millions of people-a strong and passionate team willing to lead the way was needed. The new company, called Care Innovations, will develop technologies for the aging population that will reduce healthcare costs by supporting healthy, independent living at home and in senior-housing communities.
GE AV ATION-BOEING TEAM Chip lanken'h ip ElizAbeth Lund Bill F-itzgerald Put Shonuhan CARE INNOVATIONS TEAM Louis Burns Lauren Solata Doug as Busch 26 GE 2010 ANNUAL REPORT
To Our Shareowners:
As Presiding Director of the GE Board of Directors, I write to share our perspective on corporate governance and compensation. I will talk first about our overarching philosophy, and then I will focus on a few areas-independent Board oversight; talent development, performance and compensation; strategy and risk oversight-and I will finish with how we as a Board ensure that GE governance retains an important business-building advantage.
GE takes a long-term view of governance. We consider it to be the foundation upon which we build our leadership culture and reputation for integrity, which in turn provides investors with competitive returns over the long term. We believe that the Board is best positioned to oversee management, and that investors should have fair means to propose directors and elect them by a majority vote, and use other appropriate tools to hold us accountable for company performance.
Fourteen of our 16 directors are independent of management. We seek director candidates with diverse backgrounds, demonstrated leadership qualities, sound judgment, and domain expertise in fields relevant to GE's businesses.
For example, last year we added Loews CEO Jim Tisch, an expert in global finance and leader of one of the largest diversified corporations in the United States. The Chairman and the independent Presiding Director provide Board leadership. This model recognizes that in most instances the Chairman speaks for the Company and the Board, but still provides the benefits of independent Board oversight. As GE's Presiding Director, I work with the Chairman and all of GE's independent directors to shape and monitor strategy and set the Board's agenda.
I coordinate with the chairpersons of the Board's committees to ensure that committees and the Board are functioning to our collective expectations, and that directors are receiving the information they require.
Successful governance depends first on the skill, dedication and integrity of the Company's leaders and the strength of internal management processes. The Board reviews the performance of senior executives each year and has succession plans in place for key positions to ensure continuity of leadership. GE has sound practices for developing management talent, developing and executing strategy, managing risk and complying with the spirit and letter of laws and regulations.
Compensation is a critical element in leadership development. We reward long-term performance. Our approach is not formula-driven but instead depends on our view of an executive's performance and potential over many years. We design compensation to encourage balanced risk-taking with a mix of cash and equity and long-and short-term incentives.
Strategy and risk oversight also are core Board functions. Each July we conduct a comprehensive review of GE strategy and monitor and discuss progress throughout the year While the full Board is responsible for risk oversight, we allocate responsibility for various risk matters to Board committees with specific competence in those areas. To enhance risk oversight, in February 2011 we formed a Risk Committee of the GE Board that oversees GE's and GE Capital's risk assessment and risk management structures and processes.
We make certain our view stays current. At least once a year we conduct a comprehensive review of governance trends and evaluate GE's framework for possible changes. We ask management to solicit the views of the Company's large shareholders on governance matters at least twice a year and report to us on their findings. Directors also meet with shareholders to discuss governance matters. I met recently with large investors to discuss executive compensation and Board structure issues. We have made changes to our governance policies and practices based on investor input.
While we strive to continually improve our governance practices, we avoid making changes simply because they are deemed fashionable or expedient. We base our decisions on our collective experience and judgment about what will work best for GE. We consider the interaction of all parts of our corporate governance structures to ensure that they work together in a way that produces long-term value for you, our shareowners, without undesirable cost or bureaucracy. Finally, the independent directors of GE are committed to continue working on your behalf and being transparent in explaining why we believe our approach works for our company. I would encourage you to learn more on GE's Web site at www.ge.com/company/
governance/index.html.
Sincerely, T) I Ralph S. Larsen Presiding Director February 25. 2011 GE 2010 ANNUAL REPORT 27
The GE Board held nine meetings in 2010. Each outside Board member is expected to visit at least two GE businesses without the involvement of corporate management in order to develop his or her own feel for the Company.
Board members focus on the areas that are important to share-owners-strategy, risk management, leadership development and regulatory matters. In 2010, they received briefings on a variety of issues including U.S. and global tax policy, environmental risk management and reserves, pension and healthcare plans, financial structure, liquidity, regulation and ratings, service contract performance, credit costs and real estate exposure, controllership and emerging rules, and managing brand value and reputation. At the end of the year, the Board and each of its committees conducted a thorough self-evaluation.
DIRECTORS (left to right)
Robert J. Swieringao Professor of Accounting and former Anne and Elmer Lindseth Dean, Johnson Graduate School of Management, Cornell University, Ithaca, New York.
Director since 2002.
Ralph S. Larsen 2,,6 Former Chairman of the Board and Chief Executive Officer, Johnson & Johnson.
pharmaceutical, medical and consumer products, New Brunswick, New Jersey.
Director since 2002.
Sam Nunn',4 Co-Chairman and Chief Executive Officer, Nuclear Threat Initiative. Washington, D.C.
Director since 1997.
W. Geoffrey Beattie'.
President, The Woodbridge Company Limited, Toronto, Canada.
Director since 2009.
Rochelle B. Lazarus "'
Chairman of the Board and former Chief Executive Officer, Ogilvy & Mather Worldwide, global marketing communications company, New York, New York. Director since 2000.
Andrea Jung I' Chairman of the Board and Chief Executive Officer. Avon Products, Inc.,
beauty products, New York, New York.
Director since 1998.
James I. Cash, Jr.'I'.'
Emeritus James E. Robison Professor of Business Administration, Harvard Graduate School of Business, Boston, Massachusetts. Director since 1997.
Robert W. Lone','
Former Chairman of the Board and Chief Executive Officer, Deere & Company, agricultural, construction and forestry equipment, Moline, Illinois.
Director since 2005.
James S. Tisch I President and Chief Executive Officer, Loews Corporation, New York, New York.
Director since 2010.
Susan Hockfield:3.
President of the Massachusetts Institute of Technology, Cambridge, Massachusetts. Director since 2006.
Alan G. (A.G.) Lafley',
Former Chairman of the Board and Chief Executive Officer, Procter &
Gamble Company, personal and household products, Cincinnati, Ohio.
Director since 2002.
Ann M. Fudge' Former Chairman of the Board and Chief Executive Officer, Young &
Rubicam Brands, global marketing communications network, New York, New York. Director since 1999.
Douglas A. Warner I1 1.2,3 Former Chairman of the Board, J.P. Morgan Chase & Co., The Chase Manhattan Bank, and Morgan Guaranty Trust Company, investment banking, New York, New York.
Director since 1992.
Roger S. Penske4 Chairman of the Board, Penske Corporation and Penske Truck Leasing Corporation, Chairman of the Board and Chief Executive Officer, Penske Automotive Group, Inc.,
diversified transportation company, Detroit, Michigan. Director since 1994.
James J. Mulva,
Chairman of the Board, President and Chief Executive Officer, ConocoPhillips, international integrated energy company.
Houston, Texas. Director since 2008.
Jeffrey R. Immelt' Chairman of the Board and Chief Executive Officer, General Electric Company.
Director since 2000.
fpictured on page 1) 1 Audit Committee 2 Management Development and Compensation Committee 3 Nominating and Corporate Governance Committee 4 Public Responsibilities Committee 5 Risk Committee 6 Presiding Director 28 GE2010 ANNUAL REPORT
FINANCIAL SECTION Contents 30 Management's Discussion of Financial Responsibility............................
30 Management's Annual Report on Internal Control O ver Financial Reporting......................................................................................
31 Report of Independent Registered Public Accounting Firm..................
32 Management's Discussion and Analysis (MD&A) 3 2 O p e ra tio n s..........................................................................................................
45 Financial Resources and Liquidity..........................................................
59 Critical Accounting Estim ates..................................................................
64 O ther Inform atio n..........................................................................................
65 Selected Financial Data............................
66 Audited Financial Statements and Notes 66 Statement of Earnings 66 Consolidated Statement of Changes in Shareowners' Equity 68 Statement of Financial Position 70 Statement of Cash Flows 72 Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements 131 Supplem ental Inform ation...................................................................................
1 3 4 G lo ssa ry..............................................................
We begin with a letter from our Chief Executive and Financial Officers discussing our unyielding commitment to rigorous oversight, control-lership, informative disclosure and visibility to investors.
In this report our Chief Executive and Financial Officers provide their assessment of the effectiveness of our internal control over financial reporting.
Our independent auditors, KPMG LLP, express their opinions on our financial statements and our internal control over financial reporting.
We begin the Operations section of MD&A with an overview o f our earnings, including a perspective on how the global economic environment has affected our businesses over the last three years.
We then discuss various key operating results for GE industrial (GE) and financial services (GECS). Because of the fundamental differences in these businesses, reviewing certain information separately for GE and GECS offers a more meaningful analysis. Next we provide a description of our global risk management process. Our discussion of segment results includes quantitative and qualitative disclosure about the factors affecting segment revenues and profits, and the effects of recent acquisitions, dispositions and significant trans-actions. We conclude the Operations section with an overview of our operations from a geographic perspective and a discussion of environmental matters.
In the Financial Resources and Liquidity section of MD&A, we providd an overview of the major factors that affected our consolidated financial position and insight into the liquidity and cash flow activities of GE and GECS.
Critical Accounting Estimates are necessary for us to prepare our financial statements. In this section, we discuss what these estimates are, why they are important, how they are developed and uncertainties to which they are subject.
We conclude MD&A with a brief discussion of new accounting standards that will become effective for us beginning in 2011.
Selected Financial Data provides five years of financial information for GE and GECS. This table includes commonly used metrics that facilitate comparison with other companies.
We provide Supplemental Information to reconcile certain "non-GAAP financial measures" referred to in our report to the most closely associated GAAP financial measures. We also provide information about our stock performance over the last five years.
For your convenience, we also provide a Glossary of key terms used in our financial statements.
We also present our financial information electronically at www.ge.com/investor.
GE 2010 ANNUAL REPORT 29
Management's Discussion of Financial Responsibility We believe that great companies are built on a foundation of reliable financial information and compliance with the spirit and letter of the law. For General Electric Company, that foundation includes rigorous management oversight of, and an unyielding dedication to, controllership. The financial disclosures in this report are one product of our commitment to high-quality financial reporting. In addition, we make every effort to adopt appropriate accounting policies, we devote our full resources to ensuring that those policies are applied properly and consis-tently and we do our best to fairly present our financial results in a manner that is complete and understandable.
Members of our corporate leadership team review each of our businesses routinely on matters that range from overall strat-egy and financial performance to staffing and compliance. Our business leaders monitor financial and operating systems, enabling us to identify potential opportunities and concerns at an early stage and positioning us to respond rapidly. Our Board of Directors oversees management's business conduct, and our Audit Committee, which consists entirely of independent directors, oversees our internal control over financial reporting. We continu-ally examine our governance practices in an effort to enhance investor trust and improve the Board's overall effectiveness. The Board and its committees annually conduct a performance self-evaluation and recommend improvements. Our Presiding Director led three meetings of non-management directors this year, help-ing us.sharpen our full Board meetings to better cover significant topics. Compensation policies for our executives are aligned with the long-term interests of GE investors.
We strive to maintain a dynamic system of internal controls and procedures-including internal control over financial reporting-designed to ensure reliable financial recordkeeping, transparent financial reporting and disclosure, and protection of physical and intellectual property. We recruit, develop and retain a world-class financial team. Our internal audit function, including members of our Corporate Audit Staff, conducts thousands of financial, compliance and process improvement audits each year.
Our Audit Committee oversees the scope and evaluates the overall results of these audits, and members of that Committee regularly attend GE Capital Services Board of Directors, Corporate Audit Staff and Controllership Council meetings. Our global integ-rity policies-"The Spirit &.The Letter"-require compliance with law and policy, and pertain to such vital issues as upholding finan-cial integrity and avoiding conflicts of interest. These integrity policies are available in 31 languages, and are provided to all of our employees, holding each of them accountable for compli-ance. Our strong compliance culture reinforces these efforts by requiring employees to raise any compliance concerns and by prohibiting retribution for doing so. To facilitate open and candid communication, we have designated ombudspersons through-out the Company to act as independent resources for reporting integrity or compliance concerns. We hold our directors, con-sultants, agents and independent contractors to the same integrity standards.
We are keenly aware of the importance of full and open presentation of our financial position and operating results, and rely for this purpose on our disclosure controls and procedures, including our Disclosure Committee, which comprises senior executives with detailed knowledge of our businesses and the related needs of our investors. We ask this committee to review our compliance with accounting and disclosure requirements, to evaluate the fairness of our financial and non-financial dis-closures, and to report their findings to us. We further ensure strong disclosure by holding more than 300 analyst and investor meetings annually.
We welcome the strong oversight of our financial reporting activities by our independent registered public accounting firm, KPMG LLP, engaged by and reporting directly to the Audit Committee. U.S. legislation requires management, to report on internal control over financial reporting and for auditors to render an opinion on such controls. Our report follows and the KPMG LLP report for 2010 appears on the following page.
Management's Annual Report on Internal Control Over Financial Reporting Management is responsible for establishing and maintain.ing adequate internal control over financial reporting for the Company. With our participation, an evaluation of the effective-ness of our internal control over financial reporting was conducted as of December 31, 2010, based on the framework and criteria established in Internal Control-Integroted Framework,
'issued by the Committee of Sponsoring Organizations of the Treadway Commission.
Based on this evaluation, our management has concluded that our internal control over financial reporting was effective as of December 31, 2010.
Our independent registered public accounting firm has issued an audit report on our internal control over financial reporting.
Their report follows.
JEFFREY R. IMMELT Chairman of the Board and Chief Executive Officer February 25, 2011 KEITH S. SHERIN Vice Chairman and Chief Financial Officer 30 GE 2010 ANNUAL REPORT
Report of Independent Registered Public Accounting Firm To Shareowners and Board of Directors of General Electric Company:
We have audited the accompanying statement of financial position of General Electric Company and consolidated affiliates
("GEl) as of December 31, 2010 and 2009, and the related state-ments of earnings, changes in shareowners' equity and cash flows for each of the years in the three-year period ended December 31, 2010. We also have audited GE's internal control over financial reporting as of December 31, 2010, based on criteria established in Internal Control-Integrated Framework issued by the Committee of Sponsoring Organizations of the Treadway Commission ("COSO"). GE management is responsible for these consolidated financial statements, for maintaining effective internal control over financial reporting, and for its assessment of the effectiveness of internal control over financial reporting. Our responsibility is to express an opinion on these consolidated financial statements and an opinion on GE's inter-nal control over financial reporting based on our audits.
We conducted our audits in accordance with the standards of the Public Company Accounting Oversight Board (United States).
Those standards require that we plan and perform the audits to obtain reasonable assurance about whether the financial state-ments are free of material misstatement and whether effective internal control over financial reporting was maintained in all material respects. Our audits of the consolidated financial state-ments included examining, on a test basis, evidence supporting the amounts and disclosures in the financial statements, assess-ing the accounting principles used and significant estimates made by management, and evaluating the overall financial statement presentation. Our audit of internal control overfinancial reporting included obtaining an understanding of internal control over financial reporting, assessing the risk that a material weakness exists, and testing and evaluating the design and operating effec-tiveness of internal control based on the assessed risk. Our audits also included performing such other procedures as we consid-ered necessary in the circumstances. We believe that our audits provide a reasonable basis for our opinions.
A company's internal control over financial reporting is a process designed to provide reasonable assurance regarding the reliability of financial reporting and the preparation of financial statements for external purposes in accordance with generally accepted account-ing principles. A company's internal control overfinancial reporting includes those policies and procedures that (I) pertain to the main-tenance of records that, in reasonable detail, accurately and fairly reflect the transactions and dispositions of the assets of the com-pany; (2) provide reasonable assurance that transactions are recorded as necessary to permit preparation of financial statements in accordance with generally accepted accounting principles, and that receipts and expenditures of the company are being made only in accordance with authorizations of management and directors of the company; and (3) provide reasonable assurance regarding prevention or timely detection of unauthorized acquisition, use, or disposition of the company's assets that could have a material effect on the financial statements.
Because of its inherent limitations, internal control over finan-cial reporting may not prevent or detect misstatements. Also, projections of any evaluation of effectiveness to future periods are subject to the risk that controls may become inadequate because of changes in conditions, or that the degree of compli-ance with the policies or procedures may deteriorate.
In our opinion, the consolidated financial statements appear-ing on pages 66,68, 70, 72-130 and the Summary of Operating Segments table on page 39 present fairly, in all material respects, the financial position of GE as of December 31, 2010 and 2009, and the results of its operations and its cash flows for each of the years in the three-year period ended December 31, 2010, in con-formity with U.S. generally accepted accounting principles. Also, in our opinion, GE maintained, in all material respects, effective internal control over financial reporting as of December 31, 2010, based on criteria established in Internal Control-Integrated Framework issued by COSO.
As discussed in Note i to the consolidated financial statements, GE, in 2010, changed its method of accounting for consolidation of variable interest entities; in 2009, changed its method of account-ing for impairment of debt securities, business combinations and noncontrolling interests; and, in 2008, changed its method of accounting for fair value measurements and adopted the fair value option for certain financial assets and financial liabilities.
Our audits of GE's consolidated financial statements were made for the purpose of forming an opinion on the consolidated financial statements taken as a whole. The accompanying consoli-dating information appearing on pages 67, 69 and 71 is presented for purposes of additional analysis of the consolidated financial statements rather than to present the financial position, results of operations and cash flows of the individual entities. The consoli-dating information has been subjected to the auditing procedures applied in the audits of the consolidated financial statements and, in our opinion, is fairly stated in all material respects in relation to the consolidated financial statements taken as a whole.
LOP KPMG LLP Stamford, Connecticut February 25, 2011 GE 2010 ANNUAL REPORT 31
MANAGEMENT'S DISCUSSION AND ANALYSIS Operations Our consolidated financial statements combine the industrial manufacturing, services and media businesses of General Electric Company (GE) with the financial services businesses of General Electric Capital Services, Inc. (GECS or financial services).
In the accompanying analysis of financial information, we sometimes use information derived from consolidated financial information but not presented in our financial statements pre-pared in accordance with U.S. generally accepted accounting principles (GAAP). Certain of these data are considered "non-GAAP financial measures" under the U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC) rules. For such measures, we have provided supplemental explanations and reconciliations in the Supplemental Information section.
We present Management's Discussion of Operations in five parts: Overview of Our Earnings from 2008 through 2010, Global Risk Management, Segment Operations, Geographic Operations and Environmental Matters. Unless otherwise indi-cated, we refer to captions such as revenues and earnings from continuing operations attributable to the company simply as "revenues" and "earnings" throughout this Management's Discussion and Analysis. Similarly, discussion of other matters in our consolidated financial statements relates to continuing operations unless otherwise indicated.
Effective January 1, 2010, we reorganized our segments to better align our Consumer & Industrial and Energy businesses for growth. As a result of this reorganization, we created a new segment called Home & Business Solutions that includes the Appliances and Lighting businesses from our previous Consumer & Industrial segment and the retained portion of the GE Fanuc Intelligent Platforms business of our previous Enterprise Solutions business (formerly within our Technology Infrastructure segment). In addition, the Industrial business of our previous Consumer & Industrial segment and the Sensing & Inspection Technologies and Digital Energy businesses of our previous Enterprise Solutions business are now part of the Energy busi-ness within the Energy Infrastructure segment. The Security business of Enterprise Solutions was reported in Corporate Items and Eliminations until its sale in February 2010. Also, effective January 1, 2010, the Capital Finance segment was renamed GE Capital and includes all of the continuing operations of General Electric Capital Corporation (GECC). In addition, the Transportation Financial Services business, previously reported' in GE Capital Aviation Services (GECAS), is included in Commercial Lending and Leasing ICLL) and our Consumer business in Italy, previously reported in Consumer, is included in CLL.
Effective January 1, 2011, we reorganized the Technology Infrastructure segment into three segments-Aviation, Healthcare and Transportation. The results of the Aviation, Healthcare and Transportation businesses are unaffected by this reorganization and we will begin reporting these as separate segments beginning with our quarterly report on Form 10-Q for the period ended March 31, 2011. Results for 2010 and prior periods are reported on the basis under which we managed our businesses in 2010 and do not reflect the January 2011 reorganization.
Beginning in 2011, we will supplement our GAAP net earnings and earnings per share IEPS) reporting by also reporting an oper-ating earnings and EPS measure (non-GAAPI. Operating earnings and EPS will include service cost and plan amendment amortiza-tion for our principal pension plans as these costs represent expenses associated with employee benefits earned. Operating earnings and EPS will exclude non-operating pension cost/
income such as interest cost, expected return on plans assets and non-cash amortization of actuarial gains and losses. We believe that this reporting will provide better transparency to the employee benefit costs of our principal pension plans and Company operating results.
Overview of Our Earnings from 2008 through 2010 Earnings from continuing operations attributable to the Company increased 15% in 2010 after decreasing 39% in 2009, reflecting the stabilization of overall economic conditions during 2010, following the challenging conditions of the last two years and the effect on both our industrial and financial services businesses. We believe that we are seeing signs of stabilization in the global economy, including in financial services, as GECS earnings from continuing operations attributable to the Company increased 138% in 2010 compared with a decrease of 83% in 2009. Net earnings attributable to the Company increased 6% in 2010 after decreasing 37% in 2009, as losses from discontinued operations in 2010 partially offset the 15%
increase in earnings from continuing operations. We have a strong backlog entering 2011 and expect global economic conditions to continue to improve through 2012.
Energy Infrastructure (25% and 33% of consolidated three-year revenues and total segment profit, respectively) revenues decreased 8% in 2010 and 6% in 2009 as the worldwide demand for new sources of power, such as wind and thermal, declined with the overall economic conditions. Segment profit increased 2% in 2010 and 9% in 2009 primarily on higher prices and lower material and other costs. We continue to invest in market-leading technol-ogy and services at Energy and Oil & Gas.
Technology Infrastructure 124% and 33% of consolidated three-year revenues and total segment profit, respectively) rev-enues and segment profit fell 2% and 7%, respectively, in 2010 and 7% and 9%, respectively, in 2009. We continue to invest in market-leading technologies and services at Aviation, Healthcare and Transportation. Aviation revenues and earnings trended down over this period on lower equipment sales and services and the costs of investment in new product launches, coupled with the effects of the challenging global economic environment.
Healthcare revenues and earnings improved in 2010 on higher equipment sales and services after trending down in 2009 due to generally weak global economic conditions and uncertainty in the healthcare markets. Transportation revenues and earnings declined 12% and 33%, respectively, in 2010, and 24% and 51%,
respectively, in 2009 as the weakened economy has driven overall reductions in U.S. freight traffic and we updated our esti-mates of long-term product service costs in our maintenance service agreements.
32 GE 2010 ANNUAL REPORT
MANAGEMENT'S DISCUSSION AND ANALYSIS NBC Universal INBCU) (10% and 12% of consolidated three-year revenues and total segment profit, respectively) is a diversified media and entertainment company. NBCU revenues increased 9%
in 2010 after decreasing 9% in 2009 and segment profit was flat in 2010 after decreasing 28% in 2009. The cable business continues to grow and become more profitable, the television business had mixed performance, and our parks and film businesses have improved as the U.S. economy has stabilized. On January 28, 2011, we transferred the assets of the NBCU business to a newly formed entity, which consists of our NBCU businesses and Comcast Corporation's cable networks, regional sports networks, certain digital properties and certain unconsolidated investments. In connection with the transaction, we received $6.2 billion in cash and a 49% interest in the newly formed entity, NBC Universal LLC, which we will account for under the equity method.
GE Capital (34% and 20% of consolidated three-year revenues and total segment profit, respectively) net earnings increased to
$3.3 billion in 2010 due to stabilization in the overall economic environment after declining to $1.5 billion in 2009 from the effects of the challenging economic environment and credit markets.
Over the last several years, we tightened underwriting standards, shifted teams from origination to collection and maintained a proactive risk management focus. This, along with recent increased stability in the financial markets, contributed to lower losses and a return to pre-tax earnings and a significant increase in segment profit in 2010. We also reduced our ending net invest-ment (ENOI, excluding cash and equivalents from $526 billion at January 1, 2010 to $477 billion at December 31, 2010. The current credit cycle has begun to show signs of stabilization and we expect further signs of stabilization as we enter 2011. Our focus is to reposition General Electric Capital Corporation (GECC) as a diversely funded and smaller, more focused finance company with strong positions in several mid-market, corporate and consumer financing segments.
Home & Business Solutions (6% and 2% of consolidated three-year revenues and total segment profit, respectively) revenues have increased 2% in 2010 after declining 17% in 2009. Home & Business Solutions continues to reposition its business by eliminating capac-ity in its incandescent lighting manufacturing sites and investing in energy efficient product manufacturing in locations such as Louisville, Kentucky and Bloomington, Indiana. Segment profit increased 24% in 2010 primarily as a result of the effects of produc-tivity reflecting these cost reduction efforts and increased other income, partially offset by lower prices. Segment profit increased 1% in 2009 on higher prices and lower material costs.
Overall, acquisitions contributed $0.3 billion, $2.9 billion and
$7.4 billion to consolidated revenues in 2010, 2009 and 2008, respectively, excluding the effects of acquisition gains following our adoption of an amendment to Financial Accounting Standards Board (FASB) Accounting Standards Codification (ASC) 810, Consolidation. Our consolidated net earnings included approxi-mately $0.1 billion, $0.5 billion and $0.8 billion in 2010,2009 and 2008, respectively, from acquired businesses. We integrate acqui-sitions as quickly as possible. Only revenues and earnings from the date we complete the acquisition through the end of the fourth following quarter are attributed to such businesses.
Dispositions also affected our ongoing results through lower revenues of $3.0 billion in 2010, lower revenues of $4.7 billion in 2009 and higher revenues of $0.1 billion in 2008. The effects of dispositions on net earnings were increases of $0.1 billion,
$0.6 billion and $0.4 billion in 2010, 2009 and 2008, respectively.
Significant matters relating to our Statement of Earnings are explained below.
DISCONTINUED OPERATIONS. Consistent with our goal of reduc-ing GECC ENI and focusing our businesses on selective financial services products where we have domain knowledge, broad distribution, and the ability to earn a consistent return on capi-tal, while managing our overall balance sheet size and risk, in December 2010, we sold our Central American bank and card business, BAC Credomatic GECF Inc. (BAC). In September 2007, we committed to a plan to sell our Japanese personal loan business (Lake) upon determining that, despite restructuring, Japanese regulatory limits for interest charges on unsecured personal loans did not permit us to earn an acceptable return.
During 2008, we completed the sale of GE Money Japan, which included Lake, along with our Japanese mortgage and card businesses, excluding our minority ownership in GE Nissen Credit Co., Ltd. Discontinued operations also includes our U.S. recreational vehicle and marine equipment finance business (Consumer RV Marine) and Consumer Mexico. All of these busi-nesses were previously reported in the GE Capital segment.
We reported the businesses described above as discontinued operations for all periods presented. For further information about discontinued operations, see Note 2.
WE DECLARED $5.2 BILLION IN DIVIDENDS IN 2010. Common per-share dividends of $0.46 were down 25% from 2009, follow-ing a 51% decrease from the preceding year. In February 2009, we announced the reduction of the quarterly GE stock dividend by 68% from $0.31 per share to $0.10 per share, effective with the dividend approved by the Board in June 2009, which was paid in the third quarter of 2009. As a result of strong cash generation, recovery of GE Capital and solid underlying perfor-riance in our industrial businesses during 2010, in July 2010, our Board of Directors approved a 20% increase in our regular quarterly dividend from $0.10 per share to $0.12 per share and in December 2010, approved an additional 17% increase from
$0.12 per share to $0.14 per share. On February 11, 2011, our Board of Directors approved a regular quarterly dividend of
$0.14 per share of common stock, which is payable April 25, 2011, to shareowners of record at close of business on February 28, 2011. In 2010 and 2009, we declared $0.3 billion in preferred stock dividends.
Except as otherwise noted, the analysis in the remainder of this section presents the results of GE (with GECS included on a one-line basis) and GECS. See the Segment Operations section for a more detailed discussion of the businesses within GE and GECS.
GE 2010 ANNUAL REPORT 33
MANAGEMENT'S DISCUSSION AND ANALYSIS GE SALES OF PRODUCT SERVICES were $34.7 billion in 2010, a decrease of 1% compared with 2009. Decreases in product services at Technology Infrastructure were partially offset by increases at Energy Infrastructure and Home & Business Solutions. Operating profit from product services was $10.0 bil-lion in 2010, about flat compared with 2009.
POSTRETIREMENT BENEFIT PLANS costs were $3.0 billion, $2.6 bil-lion and $2.2 billion in 2010, 2009 and 2008, respectively. Costs increased in 2010 primarily due to the amortization of 2008 investment losses and the effects of lower discount rates (prin-cipal pension plans discount rate decreased from 6.11% at December 31, 2008 to 5.78% at December 31, 2009), partially offset by lower early retirement costs.
Costs increased in 2009 primarily because the effects of lower discount rates (principal pension plans discount rate decreased from 6.34% at December 31, 2007 to 6.11% at December 31, 2008) and increases in early retirements resulting from restructuring activities and contractual requirements, partially offset by amorti-zation of prior years' investment gains and benefits from new healthcare supplier contracts.
Our discount rate for our principal pension plans at December 31, 2010 was 5.28%, which reflected current interest rates. Considering the current and expected asset allocations, as well as historical and expected returns on various categories of assets in which our plans are invested, we have assumed that long-term returns on our principal pension plan assets will be 8.0% for cost recognition in 2011, a reduction from the 8.5% we assumed in 2010, 2009 and 2008. GAAP provides recognition of differences between assumed and actual returns over a period no longer than the average future service of employees. See the Critical Accounting Estimates section for additional information.
We expect the costs of our postretirement benefits to increase in 2011 by approximately $1.1 billion as compared to 2010, pri-marily because of the effects of additional 2008 investment loss amortization and lower discount rates.
Pension expense for our principal pension plans on a GAAP basis was $1.1 billion, $0.5 billion and $0.2 billion for 2010, 2009 and 2008, respectively. Operating pension costs (non-GAAP) for these plans were $1.4 billion, $2.0 billion and $1.7 billion in 2010, 2009 and 2008, respectively.
The GE Pension Plan was underfunded by $2.8 billion at the end of 2010 as compared to $2.2 billion at December 31, 2009. The GE Supplementary Pension Plan, which is an unfunded plan, had projected benefit obligations of $4.4 billion and $3.8 billion at December 31, 2010 and 2009, respectively. The increase in under-funding from year-end 2009 was primarily attributable to the effects of lower discount rates, partially offset by an increase in GE Pension Plan assets. Our principal pension plans discount rate decreased from 5.78% at December 31, 2009 to 5.28% at December 31, 2010, which increased the pension benefit obliga-tion at year-end 2010 by approximately $2.9 billion. Our GE Pension Plan assets increased from $42.1 billion at the end of 2009 to $44.8 billion at December 31, 2010, driven by a 13.5%
increase in investment values during the year, partially offset by benefit payments. Assets of the GE Pension Plan are held in trust, solely for the benefit of Plan participants, and are not available for general company operations.
On an Employee Retirement Income Security Act (ERISA) basis, the GE Pension Plan was 98% funded at January 1, 2011. We will not make any contributions to the GE Pension Plan in 2011.
Funding requirements are determined as prescribed by ERISA and for GE, are based on the Plan's funded status as of the beginning of the previous year and future contributions may vary based on actual plan results. Assuming our 2011 actual experience is con-sistent with our current benefit assumptions le.g., expected return on assets and interest rates), we will be required to make about
$1.4 billion in contributions to the GE Pension Plan in 2012.
At December 31, 2010, the fair value of assets for our other pension plans was $2.1 billion less than the respective projected benefit obligations. The comparable amount at December 31, 2009, was $2.7 billion. We expect to contribute $0.7 billion to our other pension plans in 2011, compared with actual contributions of $0.6 billion and $0.7 billion in 2010 and 2009, respectively. We fund our retiree health benefits on a pay-as-you-go basis. The unfunded liability for our principal retiree health and life plans was
$10.9 billion and $11.6 billion at December 31, 2010 and 2009, respectively. This decrease was primarily attributable to lower healthcare trends and the effects of healthcare reform provisions on our Medicare-approved prescription drug plan, partially offset by lower discount rates (retiree health and life plans discount rate decreased from 5.67% at December 31, 2009 to 5.15% at December 31, 2010). We expect to contribute $0.7 billion to these plans in 2011 compared with actual contributions of $0.6 billion in both 2010 and 2009.
The funded status of our postretirement benefits plans and future effects on operating results depend on economic condi-tions and investment performance. For additional information about funded status, components of earnings effects and actu-arial assumptions, see Note 12.
GE OTHER COSTS AND EXPENSES are selling, general and adminis-trative expenses. These costs were 16.3%, 14.3% and 12.9% of total GE sales in 2010, 2009 and 2008, respectively. The increase in 2010 is primarily due to increased selling expenses to support global growth and higher pension costs, partially offset by lower restructuring and other charges.
INTEREST ON BORROWINGS AND OTHER FINANCIAL CHARGES amounted to $16.0 billion, $18.3 billion and $25.8 billion in 2010, 2009 and 2008, respectively. Substantially all of our borrowings are in financial services, where interest expense was $15.0 bil-lion, $17.5 billion and $24.7 billion in 2010, 2009 and 2008, respectively. GECS average borrowings declined from 2009 to 2010 and from 2008 to 2009, in line with changes in average GECS assets. Interest rates have decreased over the three-year period attributable to declining global benchmark interest rates, partially offset by higher average credit spreads. GECS average borrowings were $480.4 billion, $497.6 billion and $521.2 billion in 2010, 2009 and 2008, respectively. The GECS average 34 GE 2010 ANNUAL REPORT
MANAGEMENT'S DISCUSSION AND ANALYSIS composite effective interest rate was 3.1% in 2010, 3.5% in 2009 and 4.7% in 2008. In 2010, GECS average assets of $616.9 billion were 3% lower than in 2009, which in turn were 4% lower than in 2008. See the Liquidity and Borrowings section for a discus-sion of liquidity, borrowings and interest rate risk management.
INCOME TAXES have a significant effect on our net earnings.
As a global commercial enterprise, our tax rates are affected by many factors, including our global mix of earnings, the extent to which those global earnings are indefinitely reinvested outside the United States, legislation, acquisitions, dispositions and tax characteristics of our income. Our tax returns are routinely audited and settlements of issues raised in these audits some-times affect our tax provisions.,
GE and GECS file a consolidated U.S. federal income tax return.
This enables GE to use GECS tax deductions and credits to reduce the tax that otherwise would have been payable by GE.
Our consolidated income tax rate is lower than the U.S. statu-tory rate primarily because of benefits from lower-taxed global operations, including the use of global funding structures, and our 2009 and 2008 decisions to indefinitely reinvest prior-year earn-ings outside the U.S. There is a benefit from global operations as non-U.S. income is subject to local country tax rates that are significantly below the 35% U.S. statutory rate. These non-U.S.
earnings have been indefinitely reinvested outside the U.S. and are not subject to current U.S. income tax. The rate of tax on our indefinitely reinvested non-U.S. earnings is below the 35% U.S.
statutory rate because we have significant business operations subject to tax in countries where the tax on that income is lower than the U.S. statutory rate and because GE funds the majority of its non-U.S. operations through foreign companies that are sub-ject to low foreign taxes.
income taxes (benefit) on consolidated earnings from continu-ing operations were 7.4% in 2010 compared with (11.5)% in 2009 and 5.6% in 2008. We expect our consolidated effective tax rate to increase in 2011 in part because we expect a high effective tax rate on the pre-tax gain on the NBCU transaction with Comcast (more than $3 billion) discussed in Note 2.
We expect our ability to benefit from non-U.S. income taxed at less than the U.S. rate to continue, subject to changes of U.S. or foreign law, including, as discussed in Note 14, the possible expi-ration of the U.S. tax law provision deferring tax on active financial services income. In addition, since this benefit depends on man-agement's intention to indefinitely reinvest amounts outside the U.S., our tax provision will increase to the extent we no longer indefinitely reinvest foreign earnings.
Our benefits from lower-taxed global operations declined to
$2.8 billion in 2010 from $4.0 billion in 2009 principally because of lower earnings in our operations subject to tax in countries where the tax on that income is lower than the U.S. statutory rate, and from losses for which there was not a full tax benefit. These decreases also reflected management's decision in 2009 to indefi-nitely reinvest prior year earnings outside the U.S. The benefit from lower-taxed global operations increased in 2010 by $0.4 bil-lion due to audit resolutions. To the extent global interest rates and non-U.S. operating income increase we would expect tax benefits to increase, subject to management's intention to indefinitely reinvest those earnings.
Our benefits from lower-taxed global operations included-the effect of the lower foreign tax rate on our indefinitely reinvested non-U.S. earnings which provided a tax benefit of $2.0 billion in 2010 and $3.0 billion in 2009. The tax benefit from non-U.S.
income taxed at a local country rather than the U.S. statutory tax rate is reported in the effective tax rate reconciliation in the line "Tax on global earnings including exports."
Our benefits from lower7taxed global operations declined to
$4.0 billion in 2009 from $5.1 billion in 2008 (including in each year a benefit from the decision to indefinitely reinvest prior year earnings outside the U.S.) principally because of lower earnings in our operations subject to tax in countries where the tax on that income is lower than the U.S. statutory rate. These decreases were partially offset by management's decision in 2009 to indefi-nitely reinvest prior-year earnings outside the U.S. that was larger than the 2008 decision to indefinitely reinvest prior-year earnings outside the U.S.
Our consolidated income tax rate increased from 2009 to 2010 primarily because of an increase during 2010 of income in higher-taxed jurisdictions. This decreased the relative effect of our tax benefits from lower-taxed global operations. In addition, the consolidated income tax rate increased from 2009 to 2010 due to the decrease, discussed above, in the benefit from lower-taxed global operations. These effects were partially offset by an increase in the benefit from audit resolutions, primarily a decrease in the balance of our unrecognized tax benefits from the completion of our 2003-2005 audit with the IRS.
Cash income taxes paid in 2010 were $2.7 billion, reflecting the effects of changes to temporary differences between the carrying amount of assets and liabilities and their tax bases.
Our consolidated income tax rate decreased from 2008 to 2009 primarily because of a reduction during 2009 of income in higher-taxed jurisdictions. This increased the relative effect of our tax benefits from lower-taxed global operations, including the decision, discussed below, to indefinitely reinvest prior-year earnings outside the U.S. These effects were partially offset by a decrease from 2008 to 2009 in the benefit from lower-taxed earnings from global operations.
A more detailed analysis of differences between the U.S.
federal statutory rate and the consolidated rate, as well as other information about our income tax provisions, is provided in Note 14. The nature of business activities and associated income taxes differ for GE and for GECS and a separate analysis of each is presented in the paragraphs that follow.
Because GE tax expense does not include taxes on GECS earnings, the GE effective tax rate is best analyzed in relation to GE earnings excluding GECS. GE pre-tax earnings from continuing operations, excluding GECS earnings from continuing operations, were $12.0 billion, $12.6 billion and $14.2 billion for 2010, 2009 and 2008, respectively. On this basis, GE's effective tax rate was 16.8%
in 2010, 21.8% in 2009 and 24.2% in 2008:
GE 2010 ANNUAL REPORT 35
MANAGEMENT'S DISCUSSION AND ANALYSIS Resolution of audit matters reduced the GE effective tax rate throughout this period. The effects of such resolutions are included in the following captions in Note 14.
Audit resolutions-effect on GE tox rote, excluding GECS earnings 2010 2009 2008 Tax on global activities including exports U.S. business credits All other-net (3.3)%
(0.5) 10.8)
(4.6)%
(0.4)%
10.2)
(0.6)%
The GE effective tax rate decreased from 2009 to 2010 primarily because of the 4.0 percentage point increase in the benefit from audit resolutions shown above.
The GE effective tax rate decreased from 2008 to 2009 pri-marily because of the 3.6 percentage point increase in the benefit from lower-taxed earnings from global operations, excluding audit resolutions. The 2008 GE rate reflects the benefit of lower-taxed earnings from global operations.
The GECS effective income tax rate is lower than the U.S. statu-tory rate primarily because of benefits from lower-taxed global operations, including the use of global funding structures. There is a benefit from global operations as non-U.S. income is subject to local country tax rates that are significantly below the 35% U.S.
statutory rate. These non-U.S. earnings have been indefinitely reinvested outside the U.S. and are not subject to current U.S.
income tax. The rate of tax on our indefinitely reinvested non-U.S.
earnings is below the 35% U.S. statutory rate because we have significant business operations subject to tax in countries where the tax on that income is lower than the U.S. statutory rate and because GECS funds the majority of its non-U.S. operations through foreign companies that are subject to low foreign taxes.
We expect our ability to benefit from non-U.S. income taxed at less than the U.S. rate to continue subject to changes of U.S. or foreign law, including, as discussed in Note 14, the possible expi-ration of the U.S. tax law provision deferring tax on active financial services income. In addition, since this benefit depends on man-agement's intention to indefinitely reinvest amounts outside the U.S., our tax provision will increase to the extent we no longer indefinitely reinvest foreign earnings.
As noted above, GE and GECS file a consolidated U.S. federal income tax return. This enables GE to use GECS tax deductions and credits to reduce the tax that otherwise would have been payable by GE. The GECS effective tax rate for each period reflects the benefit of these tax reductions in the consolidated return.
GE makes cash payments to GECS for these tax reductions at the time GE's tax payments are due. The effect of GECS on the amount of the consolidated tax liability from the formation of the NBCU joint venture will be settled in cash when it otherwise would have reducedthe liability of the group absent the tax on joint venture formation.
The GECS effective tax rate was (44.81% in 2010, compared with 152.0% in 2009 and (41.41% in 2008. Comparing a tax benefit to pre-tax income resulted in a negative tax rate in 2010 and 2008.
Comparing a tax benefit to pre-tax loss results in the positive tax rate in 2009. The GECS tax benefit of $3.9 billion in 2009 decreased by $2.9 billion to $1.0 billion in 2010. The lower 2010 tax benefit resulted in large part from the change from a pre-tax loss in 2009 to pre-tax income in 2010, which increased pre-tax income
$4.7 billion and decreased the benefit ($1.7 billion), the non-repeat of the one-time benefit related to the 2009 decision (discussed below) to indefinitely reinvest undistributed prior year non-U.S.
earnings ($0.7 billion), and a decrease in lower-taxed global opera-tions in 2010 as compared to 2009 ($0.6 billion) caused in part by an increase in losses for which there was not a full tax benefit, including an~increase in the valuation allowance associated with the deferred tax asset related to the 2008 loss on the sale of GE Money Japan ($0.2 billion). These lower benefits were partially offset by the benefit from resolution of the 2003-2005 IRS audit
($0.3 billion), which is reported in the caption "All other-net" in the effective tax rate reconciliation in Note 14.
The GECS tax benefit of $2.3 billion in 2008 increased by
$1.6 billion to $3.9 billion in 2009. The higher benefit resulted in large part from the change from pre-tax income in 2008 to a pre-tax loss in 2009, which decreased pre-tax income $8.2 billion and increased the benefit ($2.9 billion) and the one-time benefit related to the 2009 decision (discussed below) to indefinitely reinvest undistributed prior-year non-U.S.earnings that was larger than the 2008 decision to indefinitely reinvest prior-year non-U.S. earnings ($0.4 billion). These increases in benefits were significantly offset by a decrease in 2009 benefits from lower-taxed global operations as compared to 2008 ($1.9 billion),
substantially as a result of the impact in 2009 of lower interest rates and foreign exchange on the funding of our non-U.S. opera-tions through companies that are subject to a low rate of tax.
During 2009, following the change in GECS external credit ratings, funding actions taken and our continued review of our operations, liquidity and funding, we determined that undistrib-uted prior-year earnings of non-U.S. subsidiaries of GECS, on which we had previously provided deferred U.S. taxes, would be indefinitely reinvested outside the U.S. This change increased the amount of prior-year earnings indefinitely reinvested outside the U.S. by approximately $2 billion, resulting in an income tax benefit of $0.7 billion in 2009.
The GECS 2008 rate reflects a reduction during 2008 of income in higher-taxed jurisdictions which increased the relative effect of tax benefits from lower-taxed global operations on the tax rate.
Global Risk Management A disciplined approach to risk is important in a diversified orga-nization like ours in order to ensure that we are executing according to our strategic objectives and that we only accept risk for which we are adequately compensated; We evaluate risk at the individual transaction level, and evaluate aggregated risk at the customer, industry, geographic and collateral-type levels, where appropriate.
Risk assessment and risk management are the responsibility of management. The GE Board of Directors (Board) has overall responsibility for risk oversight with a focus on the most 36 GE 2010 ANNUAL REPORT
MANAGEMENT'S DISCUSSION AND ANALYSIS significant risks facing the company, including strategic, operational and reputational risks. At the end of each year, management and the Board jointly develop a list of major risks that GE plans to prioritize in the next year. Throughout the year, the Board and the committees to which it has delegated responsibility dedicate a portion of their meetings to review and discuss specific risk topics in greater detail. Strategic, operational and reputational risks are presented and discussed in the context of the CEO's report on operations to the Board at regularly scheduled Board meetings and at presentations to the Board and its committees by the vice chairmen, chief risk officer, general counsel and other officers.
The Board has delegated responsibility for the oversight of spe-cific risks to Board committees as follows:
" In February 2011, the Board created a Risk Committee. This Committee oversees GE's key risks, including strategic, opera-tional, market, liquidity, funding, credit and product risk and the guidelines, policies and processes for monitoring and mitigating such risks. Starting in March 2011, as part of its overall risk oversight responsibilities for GE, the Risk Committee will also oversee risks related to GECS (including GECC), which previously was subject to direct Audit Committee oversight. The Risk Committee is expected to meet at least four times a year.
" The Audit Committee oversees GE's and GE Capital's policies and processes relating to the financial statements, the finan-cial reporting process, compliance and auditing. The Audit Committee receives an annual risk update, which focuses on the key risks affecting GE as well as reporting on the com-pany's risk assessment and risk management guidelines, policies and processes. In addition to monitoring ongoing compliance issues and matters, the Audit Committee also annually conducts an assessment of compliance issues and programs.
" The Public Responsibilities Committee oversees risks related to GE's public policy initiatives, the environment and.
similar matters.
- The Management Development and Compensation Committee oversees the risks associated with management resources, structure, succession planning, management development and selection processes, including evaluating the effect compensation structure may have on risk decisions.
" The Nominating and Corporate Governance Committee over-sees risks related to the company's governance structure and processes and risks arising from related person transactions.
The GE Board's risk oversight process builds upon management's risk assessment and mitigation processes, which include stan-dardized reviews of long-term strategic and operational planning; executive development and evaluation; code of conduct compli-ance under the Company's The Spirit & The Letter; regulatory compliance; health, safety and environmental compliance; finan-cial reporting and controllership; and information technology and security. GE's chief risk officer (CRO) is responsible for overseeing and coordinating risk assessment and mitigation on an enter-prise-wide basis. The CRO leads the Corporate Risk Function and is responsible for the identification of key business risks, providing for appropriate management of these risks within stated limits, and enforcement through policies and procedures.
Management has two committees to further assist it in assessing and mitigating risk. The Policy Compliance Review Board meets between 10 and 14 times a year, is chaired by the company's general counsel and includes the chief financial officer and other senior level functional leaders. It has principal responsibility for monitoring compliance matters across the company. The Corporate Risk Committee (CRC) meets at least four times a year, is chaired by the CRO and comprises the Chairman and CEO and other senior level business and functional leaders. It has principal responsibility for evaluating and addressing risks esca-lated to the CRO and Corporate Risk Function.
GE's Corporate Risk Function leverages the risk infrastructures in each of our businesses, which have adopted an approach that corresponds to the company's overall risk policies, guidelines and review mechanisms. In 2010, we augmented the risk infrastruc-ture by formalizing enterprise risk ownership at the business unit level and within our corporate functions. Our risk infrastructure is designed to identify, evaluate and mitigate risks within each of the following categories:
" STRATEGIC. Strategic risk relates to the company's future business plans and strategies, including the risks associated with the markets and industries in which we operate, demand for our products and services, competitive threats, technology and product innovation, mergers and acquisitions and public policy.
" OPERATIONAL. Operational risk relates to the effectiveness of our people, integrity of our internal systems and processes, as well as external events that affect the operation of our busi-nesses. It includes product life cycle and execution, product performance, information management and data security, business disruption, human resources and reputation.
" FINANCIAL. Financial risk relates to our ability to meet financial obligations and mitigate credit risk, liquidity risk and exposure to broad market risks, including volatility in foreign currency exchange rates and interest rates and commodity prices.
Liquidity risk is the risk of being unable to accommodate liability maturities, fund asset growth and meet contractual obligations through access to funding at reasonable market rates and credit risk is the risk of financial loss arising from a customer or counterparty failure to meet its contractual obligations. We face credit risk in our industrial businesses, as well as in our GE Capital investing, lending and leasing activi-ties and derivative financial instruments activities.
" LEGAL AND COMPLIANCE. Legal and compliance risk relates to changes in the government and regulatory environment, compliance requirements with policies and procedures, including those relating to financial reporting, environmental health and safety, and intellectual property risks. Government and regulatory risk is the risk that the government or regula-tory actions will impose additional cost on us or cause us to have to change our business models or practices.
GE 2010 ANNUAL REPORT 37
MANAGEMENT'S DISCUSSION AND ANALYSIS Risks identified through our risk management processes are prioritized and, depending on the probability and severity of the risk, escalated to the CRO. The CRO, in coordination with the CRC, assigns responsibility for the risks to the business or func-tional leader most suited to manage the risk. Assigned owners are required to continually monitor, evaluate and report on risks for which they bear responsibility. Enterprise risk leaders within each business and corporate function are responsible to present to the CRO and CRC risk assessments and key risks at least annually. We have general response strategies for managing risks, which categorize risks according to whether the company will avoid, transfer, reduce or accept the risk. These response strategies are tailored to ensure that risks are within acceptable GE Board tolerance levels.
Depending on the nature of the risk involved and the particular business or function affected, we use a wide variety of risk mitiga-
'tion strategies, including hedging, delegation of authorities, operating reviews, insurance, standardized processes and strate-gic planning reviews. As a matter of policy, we generally hedge the risk of fluctuations in foreign currency exchange rates, interest rates and commodity prices. Our service businesses employ a comprehensive tollgate process leading up to and through the execution of a contractual service agreement to mitigate legal, financial and operational risks. Furthermore, we centrally manage some risks by purchasing insurance, the amount of which is determined by balancing the level of risk retained or assumed with the cost of transferring risk to others. We manage the risk of fluctuations in economic activity and customer demand by moni-toring industry dynamics and responding accordingly, including by adjusting capacity, implementing cost reductions and engag-ing in mergers, acquisitions and dispositions.
GE CAPITAL RISK MANAGEMENT AND OVERSIGHT GE Capital has developed a robust risk infrastructure and processes to manage risks related to its businesses and the GE Corporate Risk Function relies upon them in fulfillment of its mission. As discussed above, starting in March 2011, the GE Risk Committee will oversee GE Capital's risk assessment.
and management processes, which was previously an Audit Committee responsibility.
At the GE Capital level, the GECS Board of Directors oversees the GE Capital risk management process, and approves all signifi-cant acquisitions and dispositions as well as significant borrowings and investments. All participants in the GE Capital risk manage-ment process must comply with approval limits established by the GECS Board.
GE Capital's risk management approach rests upon three major tenets: a broad spread of risk based on managed exposure limits; senior, secured commercial financings; and a hold-to-maturity model with transactions underwritten to "on-book" standards. Dedicated risk professionals across the businesses include underwriters, portfolio managers, collectors, environmental and engineering specialists, and specialized asset managers who evaluate leased asset residuals and remarket off-lease equipment. The senior risk officers have, on average, over 25 years of experience.
GE Capital manages risk categories identified in GE Capital's business environment, which if materialized, could prevent GE Capital from achieving its risk objectives and/or result in losses. These risks are defined as GE Capital's Enterprise Risk Universe, which includes the following risks: strategic (including earnings and capital), reputational, liquidity, credit, market, opera-tions (including financial, information technology and legal),
and compliance.
GE Capital's Enterprise Risk Management Committee (ERMC),
which is comprised of the most senior leaders in GE Capital as well as the GE CRO, oversees the establishment of appropriate risk systems, including policies, procedures, and management com-mittees that support risk controls to ensure the enterprise risks are effectively identified, measured, monitored and controlled.
The ERMC also oversees the development of GE Capital's overall risk appetite. The risk appetite is the amount of risk that GE Capital is willing and able to bear, expressed as the combina-tion of the enterprise risk objectives and risk limits. GE Capital's risk appetite is determined relative to its desired risk objectives, including, but not limited to, stand-alone credit ratings, capital levels, liquidity management, regulatory assessments, earnings, dividends and compliance. GE Capital determines its risk appetite through consideration of portfolio analytics, including stress testing and economic capital measurement, experience and judgment of senior risk officers, current portfolio levels, strategic planning, and regulatory and rating agency expectations.
GE Capital uses stress testing to supplement other risk man-agement processes. The ERMC approves the high-level scenarios for, and reviews the results of, GE Capital-wide stress tests across key risk areas, such as credit and investment, liquidity and market risk. Stress test results are also expressed in terms of impact to capital levels and metrics, and that information is reviewed with the GECS Board and the GE Risk Committee at least twice a year Stress testing requirements are set forth in the Company's approved risk policies. Key policies, such as the Enterprise Risk Management Policy, the Enterprise Risk Appetite Statement and the Liquidity and Capital Management policies, are approved by the GE Risk Committee at least annually.
GE Capital, in coordination with and under the oversight-of the GE CRO, provides comprehensive risk reports to the GE Risk Committee. At these meetings, which occur at least four times a year, GE Capital senior management focuses on the risk strategy and financial services portfolio, including the risk oversight processes used to manage all the elements of risk managed by the ERMC.
Additional information about our liquidity and how we manage this risk can be found in the Financial Resources and Liquidity section. Additional information about our credit risk and GECS portfolio can be found in the Financial Resources and Liquidity and Critical Accounting Estimates sections.
Segment Operations Our five segments are focused on the broad markets they serve:
Energy Infrastructure, Technology Infrastructure, NBC Universal, GE Capital and Home & Business Solutions. In addition to pro-viding information on segments in their entirety, we have also 38 GE 2010 ANNUAL REPORT
MANAGEMENT'S DISCUSSION AND ANALYSIS provided supplemental information for certain businesses within the segments for greater clarity.
Segment profit is determined based on internal performance measures used by the Chief Executive Officer to assess the per-formance of each business in a given period. In connection with that assessment, the Chief Executive Officer may exclude matters such as charges for restructuring; rationalization and other similar expenses; in-process research and development and certain other acquisition-related charges and balances; technology and product development costs; certain gains and losses from acqui-sitions or dispositions; and litigation settlements or other charges, responsibility for which preceded the current management team.
Segment profit excludes the effects of principal pension plans, results reported as discontinued operations, earnings attributable to noncontrolling interests of consolidated subsidiaries and accounting changes. Segment profit excludes or includes interest and other financial charges and income taxes according to how a particular segment's management is measured-excluded in determining segment profit, which we sometimes refer to as "operating profit," for Energy Infrastructure, Technology Infrastructure, NBC Universal and Home & Business Solutions; included in determining segment profit, which we sometimes refer to as "net earnings," for GE Capital. Beginning January 1, 2011, we will allocate service costs related to our principal pen-sion plans and we will no longer allocate the retiree costs of our postretirement healthcare benefits to our segments. This revised allocation methodology will better align segment operating costs to the active employee costs, which are managed by the seg-ments. We do not expect this change to significantly affect reported segment results.
We have reclassified certain prior-period amounts to conform to the current-period presentation. For additional information about our segments, see Note 28.
Summary of Operating Segments General Electric Company and consolidated affiliates (In millions) 2010 2009 2008 2007 2006 REVENUES Energy Infrastructure
$ 37,514
$ 40,648
$ 43,046
$ 34,880
$ 28,816 Technology Infrastructure 37,860 38,517 41,605 38,338 33,735 NBC Universal 16,901 15,436 16,969 15,416 16,188 GE Capital 47,040 49,746 67,645 67,217 57,943 Home & Business Solutions 8,648 8,443 10,117 11,026 11,654 Total segment revenues 147,963 152,790 179,382 166,877 148,336 Corporate items and eliminations 2,248 2,488 2,199 4,679 2,509 CONSOLIDATED REVENUES
$150,211
$155,278
$181,581
$171,556
$150,845 SEGMENT PROFIT Energy Infrastructure 7,271 7,105 6,497 5,238 3,806 Technology Infrastructure 6,314 6,785 7,460 7,186 6,687 NBC Universal 2,261 2,264 3,131 3,107 2,919 GE Capital 3,265 1,462 8,063 12,306 10,324 Home & Business Solutions 457 370 365 983 928 Total segment profit 19,568 17,986 25,516 28,820 24,664 Corporate items and eliminations (3,321)
(2,826)
(1,909)
(1,639)
(1,188)
GE interest and other financial charges (1,600)
(1,478)
(2,153)
(1,993)
(1,668)
GE provision for income taxes (2,024)
(2,739)
(3,427)
(2,794)
(2,553)
Earnings from continuing operations 12,623 10,943 18,027 22,394 19,255 Earnings (loss) from discontinued operations, net of taxes (979) 82 (617)
(186) 1,487 CONSOLIDATED NET EARNINGS ATTRIBUTABLE TO THE COMPANY
$ 11,644
$ 11,025
$ 17,410
$ 22,208
$ 20,742 See accompanying notes to consolidated financial statements.
ENERGY INFRASTRUCTURE (In millions) 2010 2009 2008 REVENUES
$37,514
$40,648
$43,046 SEGMENT PROFIT
$ 7,271
$ 7,105
$ 6,497 REVENUES Energy
$30,854
$33,698
$36,307 Oil & Gas 7,561 7,743 7,417 SEGMENT PROFIT Energy
$ 6,235
$ 6,045
$ 5,485 Oil & Gas 1,205 1,222 1,127 Energy Infrastructure segment revenues decreased 8%, or
$3.1 billion, in 2010 as lower volume ($3.3 billion) and the stron-ger U.S. dollar ($0.4 billion) were partially offset by higher prices
($0.5 billion) and higher other income ($0.1 billion). Lower volume primarily reflected decreases in thermal and wind equipment sales at Energy. The effects of the stronger U.S. dollar were at both Energy and Oil & Gas. Higher prices at Energy were par-tially offset by lower prices at Oil & Gas. The increase in other income at Energy was partially offset by lower other income at Oil & Gas.
GF 2010 ANNUAL REPORT 39
MANAGEMENT'S DISCUSSION AND ANALYSIS Segment profit increased 2% to $7.3 billion in 2010, compared with $7.1 billion in 2009 as higher prices ($0.5 billionl, the effects of deflation ($0.4billion) and higher other income ($0.1 billionl were partially offset by lower volume ($0.6 billionl, the stronger U.S. dol-lar ($0.1 billion) and decreased productivity ($0.1 billionl. Higher prices at Energy were partially offset by lower prices at Oil & Gas.
The effects of deflation primarily reflected decreased material costs at both Energy and Oil & Gas. An increase in other income at Energy was partially offset by lower other income at Oil & Gas.
Lower volume primarily reflected decreases in wind and thermal equipment sales at Energy and was partially offset by higher volume at Oil & Gas. The effects of the stronger U.S. dollar were at both Energy and Oil & Gas. The effects of decreased productivity were primarily at Energy.
Energy Infrastructure segment revenues decreased 6%, or
$2.4 billion, in 2009 as higher prices ($1.3 billionl were more than offset by lower volume ($2.5 billionl, the stronger U.S. dollar
($0.8 billionl and lower other income ($0.4 billion), primarily related to lower earnings from associated companies and marks on foreign currency. contracts. The increase in price was primarily at Energy. The decrease in volume reflected decreased equipment sales at Energy, partially offset by increased equipment sales at Oil & Gas. The effects of the stronger U.S. dollar were at both Energy and Oil &Gas.
Segment profit increased 9% to $7.1 billion in 2009, compared with $6.5 billion in 2008, as higher prices ($1.3 billion) and lower material and other costs ($0.5 billion) were partially offset by lower other income ($0.7 billionl, primarily related to lower earnings from associated companies and marks on foreign currency con-tracts, lower volume ($0.3 billion) and lower productivity
($0.1 billion). Lower material and other costs were primarily at Energy. Lower volume at Energy was partially offset by higher volume at Oil & Gas. The effects of lower productivity were at Energy.
Energy Infrastructure segment orders were $39.4 billion in both 2010 and 2009. The $27.3 billion total backlog at year-end 2010 comprised unfilled product ordersof $18.4 billion (of which 77% was scheduled for delivery in 2011) and product services orders of $8.9 billion scheduled for 2011 delivery. Comparable December 31, 2009, total backlog was $29.1 billion, of which
$20.0 billion was for unfilled product orders and $9.1 billion, for product services orders. See Corporate Items and Eliminations for a discussion of items not allocated to this segment.
TECHNOLOGY INFRASTRUCTURE (In millions) 2010 2009 2008 REVENUES
$37,860
$38,517
$41,605 SEGMENT PROFIT
$ 6,314
$ 6,785
$ 7,460 REVENUES Aviation
$17,619
$18,728
$19,239 Healthcare 16,897 16,015 17,392 Transportation 3,370 3,827 5,016 SEGMENT PROFIT Aviation
$ 3,304
$ 3,923
$ 3,684 Healthcare 2,741 2,420 2,851 Transportation 315 473 962 Technology Infrastructure revenues decreased 2%, or $0.7 bil-lion, in 2010 as lower volume ($0.6 billionl and lower other income ($0.1 billionl, reflecting lower transaction gains, were partially offset by the weaker U.S. dollar ($0.1 billionl. The decrease in volume reflected decreased commercial and military equipment sales and services at Aviation and decreased equip-ment sales and services at Transportation, partially offset by increased equipment sales and services at Healthcare. Lower transaction gains reflect the absence of gains related to the Airfoils Technologies International-Singapore Pte. Ltd. (ATI}
acquisition and the Times Microwave Systems disposition in 2009, partially offset by a gain on a partial sale of a materials business and a franchise fee at Aviation. The effects of the weaker U.S. dollar were primarily at Healthcare.
Segment profit decreased 7% to $6.3 billion in 2010, compared with $6.8 billion in 2009, from lower productivity ($0.3 billion),
lower other income ($0.1 billionl, reflecting lower transaction gains, lower volume ($0.1 billion) and the effects of inflation
($0.1 billionl, partially offset by the weaker U.S. dollar ($0.1 billionl.
Lower productivity at Aviation, primarily due to product launch and production costs associated with the GEnx engine ship-ments, and at Transportation, primarily due to higher service costs, was partially offset by increased productivity at Healthcare.
Lower transaction gains reflect the absence of gains related to the ATI acquisition and the Times Microwave Systems disposition in 2009, partially offset by a gain on a partial sale of a materials business and a franchise fee at Aviation. The decreases in volume were at Aviation and Transportation, partially offset by Healthcare. The effects of inflation were primarily at Aviation and Healthcare. The effects of the weaker U.S. dollar were pri-marily at Healthcare.
Technology Infrastructure revenues decreased 7%, or $3.1 bil-lion, in 2009 as lower volume ($3.2 billion), the stronger U.S. dollar
($0.3 billionl anrd an update at Transportation of our estimate of product service costs in maintenance service agreements
($0.3 billion) were partially offset by higher prices ($0.5 billionl and higher other income ($0.3 billionl, primarily including gains on the ATI acquisition and the Times Microwave Systems disposition.
'The decrease in volume was across all businesses in the seg-ment. The effects of the stronger U.S. dollar were at Healthcare and Aviation. Higher prices, primarily at Aviation, were partially offset by lower prices at Healthcare.
Segment profit decreased 9% to $6.8 billion in 2009, compared with $7.5 billion in 2008, as the effects of lower volume ($0.9 bil-lion), lower productivity ($0.4 billion) and higher other costs
($0.1 billion) were partially offset by higher prices ($0.5 billionl and higher other income ($0.2 billion), primarily including gains on the ATI acquisition and the Times Microwave Systems disposition.
The decrease in volume was across all businesses in the segment.
Lower productivity at Transportation was partially offset by Aviation.
Technology Infrastructure orders increased to $41.5 billion in 2010, from $37.9 billion in 2009. The $39.4 billion total backlog at year-end 2010 comprised unfilled product orders of $27.7 billion (of which 46% was scheduled for delivery in 20111 and product 40 GE2010 ANNUAL REPORT,
MANAGEMENT'S DISCUSSION AND ANALYSIS services orders of $11.7 billion scheduled for 2011 delivery.
Comparable December 31, 2009, total backlog was $37.9 billion, of which $26.0 billion was for unfilled product orders and $11.9 bil-lion, for product services orders. See Corporate Items and Eliminations for a discussion of items not allocated to this segment.
NBC UNIVERSAL revenues of $16.9 billion increased 9%, or
$1.5 billion, in 2010 as higher revenues in our broadcast televi-sion business ($0.7 billion), lower impairments related to associated companies and investment securities ($0.5 billion),
higher revenues in film ($0.3 billion), higher revenues in cable
($0.4 billion) and higher revenues in parks ($0.2 billion) were partially offset by the lack of a current year counterpart to a 2009 gain related to A&E Television Network (AETN) ($0.6 billion).
The increase in broadcast revenues reflects the 2010 Olympic broadcasts, partially offset by the absence of revenues from the 2009 Super Bowl broadcast. Segment profit of $2.3 billion was unchanged from 2009, as lower gains related to associated companies ($0.7 billion) and lower earnings in our broadcast television business ($0.3 billion) were offset by lower impair-ments related to associated companies and investment securities ($0.5 billion), higher earnings in cable ($0.3 billion),
higher earnings in film ($0.2 billion) and higher earnings in parks
($0.1 billion). The decrease in broadcast television earnings reflects losses from the Olympics broadcast, partially offset by the lack of losses related to the 2009 Super Bowl broadcast.
NBC Universal revenues decreased 9%, or $1.5 billion, in 2009 as lower revenues in our broadcast television business ($1.1 bil-lion), reflecting the lack of a current-year counterpart to the 2008 Olympics broadcasts and the effects of lower advertising rev-enues, lower revenues in film ($0.8 billion) and lower earnings and higher impairments related to associated companies and investment securities ($0.4 billion) were partially offset by the gain relating to AETN ($0.6 billion) and higher revenues in cable ($0.3 billion).
Segment profit of $2.3 billion decreased 28%, or $0.9 billion, as lower earnings in film ($0.6 billion), lower earnings and higher impairments related to associated companies and investment securities ($0.4 billion), lack of a current-year counterpart to 2008 proceeds from insurance claims ($0.4 billion) and lower earnings in our broadcast television business ($0.2 billion) were partially offset by the gain related to AETN ($0.6 billionl and higher earnings in cable ($0.2 billion). See Corporate Items and Eliminations for a discussion of items not allocated to this segment.
On January 28, 2011, we transferred the assets of the NBCU business and Comcast Corporation (Comcast) transferred certain of its assets comprising cable networks, regional sports networks, certain digital properties and certain unconsolidated investments to a newly formed entity, NBC Universal LLC (NBCU LLCI. In con-nection with the transaction, we received cash from Comcast of
$6.2 billion and a 49% interest in NBCU LLC. Comcast holds the remaining 51% interest in NBCU LLC. Our NBC Universal business was classified as held for sale at December 31, 2010 and 2009. For additional information, see Note 2.
GE CAPITAL (In millions) 2010 2009 2008 REVENUES
$ 47,040
$ 49,746
$67,645 SEGMENT PROFIT 3,265 1,462
$ 8,063 December 31 [In millions) 2010 2009 TOTAL ASSETS
$575,908
$607,707 (In millions) 2010 2009 2008 REVENUES CLL(a)
$ 18,447
$ 20,762
$26,856 Consumer1 a) 17,822 17,634 24,177 Real Estate 3,744 4,009 6,646 Energy Financial Services 1,957 2,117 3,707 GECAS(a) 5,127 4,594 4,688 SEGMENT PROFIT (LOSS)
CLL(a) 1,554 963
$ 1,838 Consumer(a) 2,629 1,419 3,623 Real Estate (1,741)
(1,541) 1,144 Energy Financial Services 367 212 825 GECAS(a) 1,195 1,016 1,140 December 31 (In millions) 2010 2009 TOTAL ASSETS CLL(a)
$202,650
$210,742 Consumer(a) 154,469 160,494 Real Estate 72,630 81,505 Energy Financial Services 19,549 22,616 GECAS(a) 49,106 48,178 (a) During the first quarter of 2010, we transferred the Transportation Financial Services business from GECAS to CLL and the Consumer business in Italy from Consumer to CLL. Prior-period amounts were reclassified to conform to the current-period presentation.
GE Capital revenues decreased 5% and net earnings increased 123% in 2010 as compared with 2009. Revenues for 2010 and 2009 included $0.2 billion and $0.1 billion of revenues from acquisitions, respectively, and in 2010 were increased by
$0.1 billion and in 2009 were reduced by $2.3 billion as a result of dispositions, including the effects of the 2010 deconsolidation of Regency Energy Partners L.P. (Regency) and the 2009 decon-solidation of Penske Truck Leasing Co., L.P. (PTL). The 2010 deconsolidation of Regency included a $0.1 billion gain on the sale of our general partnership interest in Regency and remea-surement of our retained investment (the Regency transaction).
Revenues for 2010 also decreased $0.7 billion compared with 2009 as a result of organic revenue declines primarily driven by a lower asset base and a lower interest rate environment, par-tially offset by the weaker U.S. dollar. Net earnings increased for 2010 compared with 2009, primarily due to lower provisions for losses on financing receivables, lower selling, general and administrative costs and the gain on the Regency transaction, offset by higher marks and impairments, mainly at Real Estate, the absence of the first quarter 2009 tax benefit from the deci-sion to indefinitely reinvest prior-year earnings outside the U.S.,
and the absence of the first quarter 2009 gain related to the PTL sale. GE Capital net earnings in 2010 also included restruc-turing, rationalization and other charges of $0.2 billion and net losses of $0.1 billion related to our Treasury operations.
GE 2010 ANNUAL REPORT 41
MANAGEMENT'S DISCUSSION AND ANALYSIS GE Capital revenues decreased 26% and net earnings decreased 82% in 2009 as compared with 2008. Revenues in 2009 and 2008 included $2.1 billion and $0.4 billion of revenue from acquisitions, respectively, and in 2009 were reduced by $4.8 bil-lion as a result of dispositions, including the effect of the deconsolidation of PTL. Revenues in 2009 also decreased
$14.8 billion compared with 2008 as a result of organic revenue declines, primarily driven by a lower asset base and a lower inter-est rate environment, and the stronger U.S. dollar. Net earnings decreased by $6.6 billion in 2009 compared with 2008, primarily due to higher provisions for losses on financing receivables asso-ciated with the challenging economic environment, partially offset by lower selling, general and administrative costs and the decision to indefinitely reinvest prior-year earnings outside the U.S. Net earnings also included restructuring and other charges for 2009 of $0.4 billion and net losses of $0.1 billion related to our Treasury operations.
Additional information about certain GE Capital busi-nesses follows.
CLL 2010 revenues decreased 11% and net earnings increased 61% compared with 2009. Revenues in 2010 and 2009 included
$0.2 billion and $0.1 billion, respectively, from acquisitions, and in 2010 were reduced by $1.2 billion from dispositions, pri-marily related to the deconsolidation of PTL, which included
$0.3 billion related to a gain on the sale of a partial interest in a limited partnership in PTL and remeasurement of our retained investment. Revenues in 2010 also decreased $1.2 billion compared with 2009 as a result of organic revenue declines
($1.4 billion), partially offset by the weaker U.S. dollar ($0.2 billion).
Net earnings increased by $0.6 billion in 2010, reflecting lower provisions for losses on financing receivables ($0.6 billion), higher gains ($0.2 billion) and lower selling, general and administrative costs ($0.1 billion). These increases were partially offset by the absence of the gain on the PTL sale and remeasurement
($0.3 billion) and declines in lower-taxed earnings from global operations ($0.1 billion).
CLL 2009 revenues decreased 23% and net earnings decreased 48% compared with 2008. Revenues in 2009 and 2008 included $1.9 billion and $0.3 billion from acquisitions, respectively, and were reduced by $3.2 billion from dispositions, primarily related to the deconsolidation of PTL. Revenues in 2009 also included $0.3 billion related to a gain on the sale of a partial interest in a limited partnership in PTL and remeasurement of our retained investment. Revenues in 2009 decreased $4.7 billion compared with 2008 as a result of organic revenue declines
($4.0 billion) and the stronger U.S. dollar ($0.7 billion). Net earnings decreased by $0.9 billion in 2009, reflecting higher provisions for losses on financing receivables ($0.5 billion), lower gains ($0.5 bil-lion) and declines in lower-taxed earnings from global operations
($0.4 billion), partially offset by acquisitions ($0.4 billion), higher investment income ($0.3 billion) and the stronger U.S. dollar
($0.1 billion). Net earnings also included the gain on PTL sale and remeasurement ($0.3 billion) and higher Genpact gains ($0.1 bil-lion), partially offset by mark-to-market losses and other-than-temporary impairments ($0.1 billion).
Consumer 2010 revenues increased 1% and net earnings increased 85% compared with 2009. Revenues in 2010 were reduced by $0.3 billion as a result of dispositions. Revenues in 2010 increased $0.5 billion compared with 2009 as a result of the weaker U.S. dollar ($0.5 billion). The increase in net earnings resulted primarily from core growth ($1.2 billion) and the weaker U.S. dollar ($0.1 billion), partially offset by the effects of disposi-tions ($0.1 billion). Core growth included lower provisions for losses on financing receivables across most platforms ($1.5 bil-lion) and lower selling, general and administrative costs
($0.2 billion), partially offset by declines in lower-taxed earnings from global operations ($0.7 billion) including the absence of the first quarter 2009 tax benefit ($0.5 billion) from the decision to indefinitely reinvest prior-year earnings outside the U.S. and an increase in the valuation allowance associated with Japan
($0.2 billion).
Consumer 2009 revenues decreased 27% and net earnings decreased 61% compared with 2008. Revenues in 2009 included
$0.2 billion from acquisitions and were reduced by $1.7 billion as a result of dispositions, and the lack of a current-year counterpart to the 2008 gain on sale of our Corporate Payment Services (CPS) business ($0.4 billion). Revenues in 2009 decreased $4.7 billion compared with 2008 as a result of organic revenue declines
($3.1 billion) and the stronger U.S. dollar ($1.6 billion). The decrease in net earnings resulted primarily from core declines ($2.4 billion) and the lack of a current-year counterpart to the 2008 gain on sale of our CPS business ($0.2 billion). These decreases were partially offset by higher securitization income ($0.3 billion) and the stron-ger U.S. dollar ($0.1 billion). Core declines primarily resulted from lower results in the U.S., U.K., and our banks in Eastern Europe, reflecting higher provisions for losses on financing receivables
($1.3 billion) and declines in lower-taxed earnings from global operations ($0.7 billion). The benefit from lower-taxed earnings from global operations included $0.5 billion from the decision to indefinitely reinvest prior-year earnings outside the U.S.
Real Estate 2010 revenues decreased 7% and net earn-ings decreased 13% compared with 2009. Revenues for 2010 decreased $0.3 billion compared with 2009 as a result of organic revenue declines and a decrease in property sales, partially offset by the weaker U.S. dollar. Real Estate net earnings decreased
$0.2 billion compared with 2009, primarily from an increase in impairments related to equity properties and investments
($0.9 billion), partially offset by a decrease in provisions for losses on financing receivables ($0.4 billion), and core increases ($0.3 bil-lion). Depreciation expense on real estate equity investments totaled $1.0 billion and $1.2 billion for 2010 and 2009, respectively.
Real Estate 2009 revenues decreased 40% and net earn-ings decreased $2.7 billion compared with 2008. Revenues in 2009 decreased $2.6 billion compared with 2008 as a result of organic revenue declines ($2.4 billion), primarily as a result of a decrease in sales of properties, and the stronger U.S. dollar l$0.2 billion). Real Estate net earnings decreased $2.7 billion com-pared with 2008, primarily from an increase in provisions for losses on financing receivables and impairments ($1.2 billion) and a decrease in gains on sales of properties as compared to the prior period ($1.1 billion). In the normal course of our business 42 GE 2010 ANNUAL REPORT
MANAGEMENT'S DISCUSSION AND ANALYSIS operations, we sell certain real estate equity investments when it is economically advantageous for us to do so. Depreciation expense on real estate equity investments totaled $1.2 billion in both 2009 and 2008.
Energy Financial Services 2010 revenues decreased 8% and net earnings increased 73% compared with 2009. Revenues in 2010 included a $0.1 billion gain related to the Regency trans-action and in 2009 were reduced by $0.1 billion of gains from dispositions. Revenues in 2010 decreased compared with 2009 as a result of organic revenue growth ($0.4 billion), primarily increases in associated company revenues resulting from an asset sale by an investee ($0.2 billion), more than offset by the deconsolidation of Regency. The increase in net earnings resulted primarily from core increases ($0.1 billion), primarily increases in associated company earnings resulting from an asset sale by an investee ($0.2 billion) and the gain related to the Regency trans-action ($0.1 billion).
Energy Financial Services 2009 revenues decreased 43% and net earnings decreased 74% compared with 2008. Revenues in 2009 included $0.1 billion of gains from dispositions. Revenues in 2009 also decreased $1.7 billion compared with 2008 as a result of organic declines ($1.7 billion), primarily as a result of the effects of lower energy commodity prices and a decrease in gains on sales of assets. The decrease in net earnings resulted primarily from core declines, including a decrease in gains on sales of assets as compared to the prior period and the effects of lower energy commodity prices.
GECAS 2010 revenues increased 12% and net earnings increased 18% compared with 2009. Revenues in 2010 increased compared with 2009 as a result of organic revenue growth
($0.5 billion), including higher investment income. The increase in net earnings resulted primarily from core increases ($0.2 billion),
including the benefit from resolution of the 2003-2005 IRS audit, lower credit losses and higher investment income, partially offset by higher impairments related to our operating lease portfolio of commercial aircraft.
GECAS 2009 revenues decreased 2% and net earnings decreased 11% compared with 2008. The decrease in revenues resulted primarily from lower asset sales ($0.2 billion). The decrease in net earnings resulted primarily from lower asset sales
($0.1 billion) and core declines reflecting higher credit losses and impairments.
HOME & BUSINESS SOLUTIONS revenues increased 2%, or
$0.2 billion, to $8.6 billion in 2010 compared with 2009 as higher volume ($0.4 billion) and higher other income ($0.1 billion) was partially offset by lower prices ($0.2 billion). The increase in volume reflected increased sales across all businesses. The decrease in price was primarily at Appliances. Segment profit increased 24%, or $0.1 billion, to $0.5 billion in 2010, primarily as a result of the effects of productivity ($0.2 billion) and increased other income primarily related to associated com-panies ($0.1 billion), partially offset by lower prices ($0.2 billion).
Home & Business Solutions revenues of $8.4 billion decreased 17%, or $1.7 billion, in 2009 compared with 2008, as lower volume
($1.8 billion) and the stronger U.S. dollar ($0.1 billion) were partially offset by higher prices ($0.2 billion). The decrease in volume pri-marily reflected tightened consumer spending in the European and U.S. markets. Segment profit increased 1% in 2009 as higher prices ($0.2 billion) and lower material and other costs ($0.2 billion) were partially offset by lower productivity ($0.2 billion) and lower other income ($0.1 billion). See Corporate Items and Eliminations for a discussion of items not allocated to this segment.
CORPORATE ITEMS AND ELIMINATIONS (In millions) 2010 2009 2008 REVENUES Security and other disposed businesses
$ 298
$1,765
$1,784 Insurance activities 3,596 3,383 3,226 Eliminations and other (1,646) 12,660)
(2,811)
Total
$ 2,248
$2,488
$2,199 OPERATING PROFIT (COST)
Security and other disposed businesses 5
$ 190
$ 270 Insurance activities (58)
(79)
(213)
Principal pension plans (1,072)
(547)
(244)
Underabsorbed corporate overhead (593)
(361)
(341)
Other (1,603)
(2,029)
(1,381)
Total
$(3,321)
$(2,826)
$(1,909)
Corporate Items and Eliminations include the effects of eliminat-ing transactions between operating segments; certain disposed businesses, including our Security business; results of our insur-ance activities remaining in continuing operations; cost of our principal pension plans; underabsorbed corporate overhead; and certain non-allocated amounts described below. Corporate Items and Eliminations is not an operating segment. Rather, it is added to operating segment totals to reconcile to consolidated totals on the financial statements.
Certain amounts included in Corporate Items and Eliminations cost are not allocated to GE operating segments because they are excluded from the measurement of their operating performance for internal purposes. In 2010, these included $0.5 billion at Technology Infrastructure and $0.3 billion at Energy Infrastructure, primarily for technology and product development costs, restruc-turing, rationalization and other charges, and $0.3 billion at Home & Business Solutions and $0.1 billion at NBC Universal, primarily for restructuring, rationalization and other charges. In 2009, these included $0.3 billion at both Technology Infrastructure and Energy Infrastructure and $0.2 billion at Home & Business Solutions, primarily for restructuring, rationalization and other charges and $0.3 billion at NBC Universal, primarily for restructur-ing, rationalization and other charges and technology and product development costs. In 2008, amounts primarily related to restruc-turing, rationalization and other charges were $0.5 billion at NBC Universal, $0.4 billion at Technology Infrastructure and
$0.3 billion at each of Energy Infrastructure and Home & Business Solutions. Included in these amounts in 2008 were technology and product development costs of $0.2 billion at NBC Universal and
$0.1 billion at Technology Infrastructure.
GE2010 ANNUAL REPORT 43
MANAGEMENT'S DISCUSSION AND ANALYSIS In 2010, underabsorbed corporate overhead increased by
$0.2 billion, primarily related to increased costs at our global research centers. Other operating profit (cost) decreased $0.4 bil-lion in 2010 as compared with 2009, as lower restructuring and other charges (including environmental remediation costs related to the Hudson River dredging project)l($0.6 billion) were partially offset by lower gains related to disposed businesses ($0.2 billion).
DISCONTINUED OPERATIONS (In millions) 2010 2009 2008 Earnings (loss) from discontinued operations, net of taxes
$1979)
$82
$(617)
Discontinued operations primarily comprised BAC, GE Money Japan, our U.S. mortgage business (WMCI, Consumer RV Marine, Consumer Mexico and Plastics. Results of these businesses are reported as discontinued operations for all periods presented.
During the fourth quarter of 2010, we completed the sale of our 100% interest in BAC for $1.9 billion. As a result, we recog-nized an after-tax gain of $0.8 billion in 2010. The disposition of BAC is consistent with our goal of reducing ENI and focusing our businesses on selective financial services products where we have domain knowledge, broad distribution, and the ability to earn a consistent return on capital, while managing our overall balance sheet size and risk.
In the fourth quarter of 2010, we entered into agreements to sell Consumer RV Marine and Consumer Mexico for approximately
$2.4 billion and approximately $2.0 billion, respectively, and have classified these businesses as discontinued operations.
During the third quarter of 2007, we committed to a plan to sell our Lake business and recorded an after-tax loss of $0.9 billion, which represented the difference between the net book value of our Lake business and the projected sale price. During 2008, we completed the sale of GE Money Japan, which included Lake, along with our Japanese mortgage and card businesses, exclud-ing our minority ownership interest in GE Nissen Credit Co., Ltd.
In connection with this sale, and primarily related to our Japanese mortgage and card businesses, we recorded an incremental
$0.4 billion loss in 2008.
In 2010, loss from discontinued operations, net of taxes, pri-marily reflected incremental reserves for excess interest claims related to our loss-sharing arrangement on the 2008 sale of GE Money Japan ($1.7 billion) and estimated after-tax losses of $0.2 billion and $0.1 billion on the planned sales of Consumer Mexico and Consumer RV Marine, respectively, partially offset by an after-tax gain on the sale of BAC of $0.8 billion and earnings from operations at Consumer Mexico of $0.2 billion and at BAC of $0.1 billion.
Loss from discontinued operations, net of taxes, in 2009, primarily reflected incremental reserves for excess interest claims related to our loss-sharing arrangement on the 2008 sale of GE Money Japan of $0.1 billion.
Loss from discontinued operations, net of taxes, in 2008 was
$0.6 billion, primarily reflecting a loss from operations of $0.3 bil-lion, and incremental reserves for excess interest claims related to our loss-sharing arrangement on the 2008 sale of GE Money Japan of $0.4 billion.
For additional information related to discontinued operations, see Note 2.
Geographic Operations Our global activities span all geographic regions and primarily encompass manufacturing for local and export markets, import and sale of products produced in other regions, leasing of air-craft, sourcing for our plants domiciled in other global regions and provision of financial services within these regional econo-mies. Thus, when countries or regions experience currency and/
or economic stress, we often have increased exposure to certain risks, but also often have new profit opportunities. Potential increased risks include, among other things, higher receivable delinquencies and bad debts, delays or cancellations of sales and orders principally related to power and aircraft equipment, higher local currency financing costs and slowdown in estab-lished financial services activities. New profit opportunities include, among other things, more opportunities for lower cost outsourcing, expansion of industrial and financial services activi-ties through purchases of companies or assets at reduced prices and lower U.S. debt financing costs.
Revenues are classified according to the region to which products and services are sold. For purposes of this analysis, U.S.
is presented separately from the remainder of the Americas. We classify certain operations that cannot meaningfully be associ-ated with specific geographic areas as "Other Global" for this purpose.
GEOGRAPHIC REVENUES (In billions) 2010 2009 2008 U.S.
$ 70.5
$ 72.2
$ 85.0 Europe 31.8 36.9 44.0 Pacific Basin 21.6 20.7 23.6 Americas 13.4 11.4 14.2 Middle East and Africa 9.1 10.0 10.1 Other Global 3.8 4.1 4.7 Total
$150.2
$155.3
$181.6 Global revenues decreased 4% to $79.7 billion in 2010, com-pared with $83.1 billion and $96.6 billion in 2009 and 2008, respectively. Global revenues to external customers as a per-centage of consolidated revenues were 53% in 2010, compared with 54% in 2009 and 53% in 2008. The effects of currency fluctuations on reported results increased revenues by $0.5 bil-lion in 2010, decreased revenues by $3.9 billion in 2009 and increased revenues by $2.0 billion in 2008.
GE global revenues, excluding GECS, in 2010 were $53.3 billion, down 5% over 2009. Decreases of 12% in Europe and 9% in the Middle East and Africa more than offset increases in growth markets of 43% in Australia and 18% in Latin America. These revenues as a percentage of GE total revenues, excluding GECS, were 53% in 2010, compared with 55% and 53% in 2009 and 2008, respectively. GE global revenues, excluding GECS, were
$56.4 billion in 2009, down 5% from 2008, primarily resulting from decreases in Western Europe and Latin America.
44 GE 2010 ANNUAL REPORT
MANAGEMENT'S DISCUSSION AND ANALYSIS GECS global revenues decreased 1% to $26.4 billion in 2010, compared with $26.7 billion and $37.2 billion in 2009 and 2008, respectively, primarily as a result of decreases in Europe. GECS global revenues as a percentage of total GECS revenues were 52%
in 2010, compared with 51% and 53% in 2009 and 2008, respec-tively. GECS global revenue decreased by 28% in 2009 from
$37.2 billion in 2008, primarily due to dispositions in Europe and the Pacific Basin.
TOTAL ASSETS (CONTINUING OPERATIONS)
December 31 (In billions) 2010 2009 U.S.
$387.3
$387.3 Europe 199.2 219.0 Pacific Basin 61.1 65.8 Americas 40.0 38.4 Other Global 58.3 56.3 Total
$745.9
$766.8 Total assets of global operations on a continuing basis were
$358.6 billion in 2010, a decrease of $20.9 billion, or 6%, from 2009.
GECS global assets on a continuing basis of $279.6 billion at the end of 2010 were 9% lower than at the end of 2009, reflecting core declines in Europe and the Pacific Basin, primarily due to portfolio run-off in various businesses at Consumer and lower financing receivables and equipment leased to others at CLL.
Financial results of our global activities reported in U.S. dollars are affected by currency exchange. We use a number of tech-niques to manage the effects of currency exchange, including selective borrowings in local currencies and selective hedging of significant cross-currency transactions. Such principal currencies are the pound sterling, the euro, the Japanese yen, the Canadian dollar and the Australian dollar.
Environmental Matters Our operations, like operations of other companies engaged in similar businesses, involve the use, disposal and cleanup of substances regulated under environmental protection laws.
We are involved in a sizeable number of remediation actions to clean up hazardous wastes as required by federal and state laws. Such statutes require that responsible parties fund reme-diation actions regardless of fault, legality of original disposal or ownership of a disposal site. Expenditures for site remediation actions amounted to approximately $0.2 billion in 2010, $0.3 bil-lion in 2009 and $0.2 billion in 2008. We presently expect that such remediation actions will require average annual expendi-tures of about $0.4 billion for each of the next two years.
As previously disclosed, in 2006, we entered into a consent decree with the Environmental Protectio.n Agency (EPA) to dredge PCB-containing sediment from the upper Hudson River. The consent decree provided that the dredging would be performed in two phases. Phase 1 was completed in May through November of 2009. Between Phase l and Phase 2 there was an intervening peer review by an independent panel of national experts. The panel evaluated the performance of Phase 1 dredging operations with respect to Phase 1 Engineering Performance Standards and recommended proposed changes to the standards. On December 17, 2010, EPA issued its decisions setting forth the final performance standards for Phase 2 of the dredging project, incorporating aspects of the recommendations from the indepen-dent peer review panel and from GE. In December 2010, we agreed with EPA to perform Phase 2 of the project in accordance with the final performance standards set by EPA. We have reviewed EPA's final performance standards for Phase 2 to assess the potential scope and duration of Phase 2, as well as operational and engineering changes that could be required. Based on this review and our best professional engineering judgment, we increased our reserve for the probable and estimable costs for completing the Hudson River dredging project by $0.8 billion in the fourth quarter of 2010.
Financial Resources and Liquidity This discussion of financial resources and liquidity addresses the Statement of Financial Position, Liquidity and Borrowings, Debt and Derivative Instruments, Guarantees and Covenants, the Consolidated Statement of Changes in Shareowners' Equity, the Statement of Cash Flows, Contractual Obligations, and Variable Interest Entities.
Overview of Financial Position Major changes to our shareowners' equity are discussed in the Consolidated Statement of Changes in Shareowners' Equity section. In addition, other significant changes to balances in our Statement of Financial Position follow.
Statement of Financial Position Because GE and GECS share certain significant elements of their Statements of Financial Position-property, plant and equipment and borrowings, for example-the following discussion addresses significant captions in the "consolidated" statement. Within the following discussions, however, we distinguish between GE and GECS activities in order to permit meaningful analysis of each individual consolidating statement.
INVESTMENT SECURITIES comprise mainly investment grade debt securities supporting obligations to annuitants and policy-holders in our run-off insurance operations and holders of guaranteed investment contracts IGICs) in Trinity (which ceased issuing new investment contracts beginning in the first quarter of 2010) and investment securities held at our global banks. The fair value of investment securities decreased to $43.9 billion at December 31, 2010, from $51.3 billion at December 31, 2009, primarily driven by a decrease in retained interests as a result of our adoption of FASB Accounting Standards Update (ASU) 2009-16 and ASU 2009-17, amendments to ASC 860, Transfers and Servicing, and ASC 810, Consolidations, respectively (ASU 2009-16 & 17), and maturities partially offset by improved market conditions. Of the amount at December 31, 2010, we held debt securities with an estimated fair value of $42.8 billion, which included corporate debt securities, residential mortgage-backed securities (RMBS) and commercial mortgage-backed securities (CMBS) with estimated fair values of $25.4 billion, $2.8 billion and GE 2010 ANNUAL REPORT 45
MANAGEMENT'S DISCUSSION AND ANALYSIS
$2.9 billion, respectively. Unrealized losses on debt securities were $1.4 billion and $2.6 billion at December 31, 2010 and December 31, 2009, respectively. This amount included unreal-ized losses on corporate debt securities, RMBS and CMBS of
$0.4 billion, $0.4 billion and $0.1 billion, respectively, at December 31, 2010, as compared with $0.8 billion, $0.8 billion and $0.4 billion, respectively, at December 31, 2009.
We regularly review investment securities for impairment using both qualitative and quantitative criteria. We presently do not intend to sell our debt securities and believe that it is not more likely than not that we will be required to sell these securities that are in an unrealized loss position before recovery of our amortized cost. We believe that the unrealized loss associated with our equity securities will be recovered within the foreseeable future.
Our RMBS portfolio is collateralized primarily by pools of indi-vidual, direct mortgage loans (a majority of which were originated in 2006 and 2005), not other structured products such as collater-alized debt obligations. Substantially all of our RMBS securities are in a senior position in the capital structure of the deals and 65% are agency bonds or insured by Monoline insurers (on which we con-tinue to place reliance). Ofour total RMBS portfolio at December 31, 2010 and December 31, 2009, approximately $0.7 billion and
$0.9 billion, respectively, relate to residential subprime credit, primarily supporting our guaranteed investment contracts. A majority of exposure to residential subprime credit related to investment securities backed by mortgage loans originated in 2006 and 2005. Substantially all of the subprime RMBS were invest-ment grade at the time of purchase and approximately 72% have been subsequently downgraded to below investment grade.
Our CMBS portfolio is collateralized by both diversified pools of mortgages that were originated for securitization Iconduit CMBSI and pools of large loans backed by high-quality properties (large loan CMBSI, a majority of which were originated in 2007 and 2006.
Substantially all of the securities in our CMBS portfolio have investment grade credit ratings and the vast majority of the securities are in a senior position in the capital structure.
Our asset-backed securities IABS) portfolio is collateralized by a variety of diversified pools of assets such as student loans and credit cards, as well as large senior secured loans of high-quality, middle-market companies in a variety of industries. The vast majority of our ABS securities are in a senior position in the capital structure of the deals. In addition, substantially all of the securities that are below investment grade are in an unrealized gain position.
For ABS, including RMBS, we estimate the portion of loss attributable to credit using a discounted cash flow model that considers estimates of cash flows generated from the underlying collateral. Estimates of cash flows consider internal credit risk, interest rate and prepayment assumptions that incorporate management's best estimate of key assumptions, including default rates, loss severity and prepayment rates. For CMBS, we estimate the portion of loss attributable to credit by evaluating potential losses on each of the underlying loans in the security.
Collateral cash flows are considered in the context of our position in the capital structure of the deals. Assumptions can vary widely depending upon the collateral type, geographic concentrations and vintage.
If there has been an adverse change in cash flows for RMBS, management considers credit enhancements such as Monoline insurance (which are features of a specific securityl. In evaluating the overall creditworthiness of the Monoline insurer IMonoline),
we use an analysis that is similar to the approach we use for cor-porate bonds, including an evaluation of the sufficiency of the Monoline's cash reserves and capital, ratings activity, whether the Monoline is in default or default appears imminent, and the potential for intervention by an insurance or other regulator.
Monolines provide credit enhancement for certain of our investment securities, primarily RMBS and municipal securities.
The credit enhancement is a feature of each specific security that guarantees the payment of all contractual cash flows, and is not purchased separately by GE. The Monoline industry continues to experience financial stress from increasing delinquencies and defaults on the individual loans underlying insured securities. We continue to rely on Monolines with adequate capital and claims paying resources. We have reduced our reliance on Monolines that do not have adequate capital or have experienced regulator intervention. At December 31, 2010, our investment securities insured by Monolines on which we continue to place reliance were
$1.7 billion, including $0.3 billion of our $0.7 billion investment in subprime RMBS. At December 31, 2010, the unrealized loss associ-ated with securities subject to Monoline credit enhancement for which there is an expected credit loss was $0.3 billion.
Total pre-tax, other-than-temporary impairment losses during 2010 were $0.5 billion, of which $0.3 billion was recognized in earnings and primarily relates to credit losses on RMBS, non-U.S.
government securities, non-U.S. corporate securities and equity securities, and $0.2 billion primarily relates to non-credit related losses on RMBS and is included within accumulated other com-prehensive income.
Our qualitative review attempts to identify issuers' securities that are "at-risk" of other-than-temporary impairment, that is, for securities that we do not intend to sell and it is not more likely than not that we will be required to sell before recovery of our amortized cost, whether there is a possibility of credit loss that would result in an other-than-temporary impairment recognition in the following 12 months. Securities we have identified as "at-risk" primarily relate to investments in RMBS securities and non-U.S. corporate debt securities across a broad range of indus-tries. The amount of associated unrealized loss on these securities at December 31, 2010, is $0.4 billion. Credit losses that would be recognized in earnings are calculated when we determine the security to be other-than-temporarily impaired. Uncertainty in the capital markets may cause increased levels of other-than-temporary impairments.
At December 31, 2010, unrealized losses on investment securi-ties totaled $1.4 billion, including $1.2 billion aged 12 months or longer, compared with unrealized losses of $2.6 billion, including
$?.3 billion aged 12 months or longer, at December 31, 2009. Of the amount aged 12 months or longer at December 31, 2010, more than-70% of our debt securities were considered to be investment grade by the major rating agencies. in addition, of the amount aged 12 months or longer, $0.7 billion and $0.3 billion related to structured securities (mortgage-backed, asset-backed 46 GE 2010 ANNUAL REPORT
MANAGEMENT'S DISCUSSION AND ANALYSIS and securitization retained interests) and corporate debt securi-ties, respectively. With respect to our investment securities that are in an unrealized loss position at December 31, 2010, the vast majority relate to debt securities held to support obligations to holders of GICs and annuitants and policyholders in our run-off insurance operations. We presently do not intend to sell our debt securities and believe that it is not more likely than not that we will be required to sell these securities that are in an unrealized loss position before recovery of our amortized cost. For additional information, see Note 3.
FAIR VALUE MEASUREMENTS. For financial assets and liabilities measured at fair value on a recurring basis, fair value is the price we would receive to sell an asset or pay to transfer a liability in an orderly transaction with a market participant at the measurement date. In the absence of active markets for the identical assets or liabilities, such measurements involve devel-oping assumptions based on market observable data and, in the absence of such data, internal information that is consistent with what market participants would use in a hypothetical transaction that occurs at the measurement date. Additional information about our application of this guidance is provided in Notes 1 and 21.
Investments measured at fair value in earnings include equity investments of $0.8 billion at year-end 2010. The earnings effects of changes in fair value on these assets, favorable and unfavor-able, will be reflected in the period in which those changes occur.
As discussed in Note 9, we also have assets that are classified as held for sale in the ordinary course of business, loans and real estate properties, carried at $3.5 billion at year-end 2010, which represents the lower of carrying amount or estimated fair value less costs to sell. To the extent that the estimated fair value less costs to sell is lower than carrying value, any favorable or unfavor-able changes in fair value will be reflected in earnings in the period in which such changes occur.
WORKING CAPITAL, representing GE current receivables and inventories, less GE accounts payable and progress collections, was $(1.6) billion at December 31, 2010, down an insignificant amount from December 31, 2009, as reductions in inventory and an increase in accounts payable were offset by higher current receivables and lower'progress collections. As Energy Infrastructure and Technology Infrastructure deliver units out of their backlogs over the next few years, progress collections of
$11.8 billion at December 31, 2010, will be earned, which, along with progress collections on new orders, will impact working capital. Throughout the last four years, we have executed a significant number of initiatives through our Operating Council, such as lean cycle time projects, which have resulted in a more efficient use of working capital. We expect to continue these initiatives in 2011, which should significantly offset the effects of decreases in progress collections.
We discuss current receivables and inventories, two important elements of working capital, in the following paragraphs.
CURRENT RECEIVABLES for GE totaled $10.4 billion at the end of 2010 and $9.8 billion at the end of 2009, and included $8.1 bil-lion due from customers at the end of 2010 compared with
$7.5 billion at the end of 2009. GE current receivables turnover was 8.6 in 2010, compared with 8.2 in 2009. The overall increase in current receivables was primarily due to the higher volume in Technology Infrastructure businesses.
INVENTORIES for GE totaled to $11.5 billion at December 31, 2010, down $0.5 billion from the end of 2009. This decrease reflected lower inventories at Energy Infrastructure, partially offset by higher inventories at Technology Infrastructure.
GE inventory turnover was 7.2 and 6.8 in 2010 and 2009, respectively. See Note 5.
FINANCING RECEIVABLES is our largest category of assets and represents one of our primary sources of revenues. Our portfolio of financing receivables is diverse and not directly comparable to major U.S. banks. A discussion of the quality of certain elements of the financing receivables portfolio follows.
Our consumer portfolio is largely non-U.S. and primarily com-prises mortgage, sales finance, auto and personal loans in various European and Asian countries. Our U.S. consumer financing receiv-ables comprise 14% of our total portfolio. Of those, approximately 63% relate primarily to credit cards, which are often subject to profit and loss sharing arrangements with the retailer (the results of which are reflected in revenues), and havea smaller average balance and lower loss severity as compared to bank cards. The remaining 37% are sales finance receivables, which provide elec-tronics, recreation, medical and home improvement financing to customers. In 2007, we exited the U.S. mortgage business and we have no U.S. auto or student loans.
Our commercial portfolio primarily comprises senior, secured positions with comparatively low loss history. The secured receiv-ables in this portfolio are collateralized by a variety of asset classes, which for our CLL business primarily include: industrial-related facilities and equipment, vehicles, corporate aircraft and equipment used in many industries, including the construction, manufacturing, transportation, media, communications, enter-tainment and healthcare industries. The portfolios in our Real Estate, GECAS and Energy Financial Services businesses are col-lateralized by commercial real estate, commercial aircraft and operating assets in the global energy and water industries, respectively. We are in a secured position for substantially all of our commercial portfolio.
Losses on financing receivables are recognized when they are incurred, which requires us to make our best estimate of probable losses inherent in the portfolio. The method for calculating the best estimate of losses depends on the size, type and risk charac-teristics of the related financing receivable. Such an estimate requires consideration of historical loss experience, adjusted for current conditions, and judgments about the probable effects of relevant observable data, including present economic conditions such as delinquency rates, financial health of specific customers and market sectors, collateral values (including housing price indices as applicable), and the present and expected future levels of interest rates. The underlying assumptions, estimates and assessments we use to provide for losses are updated periodically to reflect our view of current conditions. Changes in such GE 2010 ANNUAL REPORT 47
MANAGEMENT'S DISCUSSION AND ANALYSIS estimates can significantly affect the allowance and provision for losses. It is possible to experience credit losses that are different from our current estimates.
Our risk management process includes standards and policies for reviewing major risk exposures and concentrations, and evalu-ates relevant data either for individual loans or financing leases, or on a portfolio basis, as appropriate.
Loans acquired in a business acquisition are recorded at fair value, which incorporates our estimate at the acquisition date of the credit losses over the remaining life of the portfolio. As a result, the allowance for losses is not carried over at acquisition.
This may have the effect of causing lower reserve coverage ratios for those portfolios.
For purposes of the discussion that follows, "delinquent" receivables are those that are 30 days or more past due based on their contractual terms; and "nonearning" receivables are those that are 90 days or more past due (or for which collection is other-wise doubtful). Nonearning receivables exclude loans purchased at a discount (unless they have deteriorated post-acquisition).
Under ASC 310, Receivables, these loans are initially recorded at fair value and accrete interest income over the estimated life of the loan based on reasonably estimable cash flows even if the underlying loans are contractually delinquent at acquisition. In addition, nonearning receivables exclude loans that are paying on a cash accounting basis but classified as nonaccrual and impaired.
"Nonaccrual" financing receivables include all nonearning receiv-ables and are those on which we have stopped accruing interest.
We stop accruing interest at the earlier of the time at which col-lection of an account becomes doubtful or the account becomes 90 days past due. Recently restructured financing receivables are not considered delinquent when payments are brought current according to the restructured terms, but may remain classified as nonaccrual until there has been a period of satisfactory payment performance by the borrower and future payments are reason-ably assured of collection.
Further information on the determination of the allowance for losses on financing receivables and the credit quality and catego-rization of our financing receivables is provided in the Critical Accounting Estimates section and Notes 1, 6 and 23.
Financing receivables at Nor December 31, January 1, December 31, December 31, earning receivables at January 1, December 31, Allowance for losses at December 31, January 1,,_ December 31, fIn millions) 2010 2 0 10(a) 2009 2010 2 0 10 (a) 2009 2010 2010(al 2009 COMMERCIAL CLL(b)
Americas
$ 86,596
$ 99,666
$ 87,496
$ 2,571
$ 3,437
$ 3,155
$1,287
$1,245
$1,179 Europe 37,498 43,403 41,455 1,241 1,441 1,441 429 575 575 Asia 11,943 13,159 13,202 406 559 576 222 234 244 Other 2,626 2,836 2,836 8
24 24 7
11 11 Total CLL 138,663 159,064 144,989 4,226 5,461 5,196 1,945 2,065 2,009 Energy Financial Services 7,011 7,790 7,790 62 78 78 22 28 28 GECAS(b) 12,615 13,254 13,254 153 153 20 104 104 OtherIC) 1,788 2,614 2,614 102 72 72 58 34 34 Total Commercial 160,077 182,722 168,647 4,390 5,764 5,499 2,045 2,231 2,175 REAL ESTATE Debt(d) 30,249 36,257 36,565 961 939 939 1,292 1,355 1,358 Business properties(e) 9,962 12,416 8,276 386 419 313 196 181 136 Total Real Estate 40,211 48,673 44,841 1,347 1,358 1,252 1,488 1,536 1,494 CONSUMER(b)
Non-U.S. residential mortgages(f) 45,536 54,921 54,921 3,812 4,331 4,331 828 926 926 Non-U.S. installment and revolving credit 20,368 -
23,443 23,443 290 409 409 945 1,116 1,116 U.S. installment and revolving credit 43,974 44,008 20,027 1,201 1,624 832 2,333 3,153 1,551 Non-U.S. auto 8,877 12,762 12,762 48 66 66 174 303 303 Other 8,306 10,156 10,156 478 610 610 259 291 291 Total Consumer 127,061 145,290 121,309 5,829 7,040 6,248 4,539 5,789 4,187 Total
$327,349
$376,685
$334,797
$11,566
$14,162
$12,999
$8,072
$9,556
$7,856 (a) Reflects the effects of our adoption of ASU 2009-16 & 17 on January 1, 2010. See Notes 6 and 23.
IbN During the first quarter of 2010, we transferred the Transportation Financial Services business from GECAS to CLL and the Consumer business in Italy from Consumer to CLL. Prior-period amounts were reclassified to conform to the current-period presentation.
(c) Primarily consisted of loans and financing leases in former consolidated, liquidating securitization entities, which became wholly owned affiliates in December 2010.
(d) Financing receivables included $218 million and $317 million of construction loans at December 31, 2010 and December 31, 2009, respectively.
le) Our Business properties portfolio is underwritten primarily by the credit quality of the borrower and secured by tenant and owner-occupied commercial properties.
(f) At December 31, 2010, net of credit insurance, approximately 24% of our secured Consumer non-U.S. residential mortgage portfolio comprised loans with introductory.
below market rates that are scheduled to adjust at future dates; with high loan-to-value ratios at inception (greater than 90%); whose terms permitted interest-only payments; or whose terms resulted in negative amortization. At origination, we underwrite loans with an adjustable rate to the reset value. Of these loans, 82% are in our U.K. and France portfolios, which comprise mainly loans with interest-only payments and introductory below market rates, have a delinquency rate of 15%, have a loan-to-value ratio at origination of 75% and have re-indexed loan-to-value ratios of 83% and 60%, respectively. At December 31, 2010, 4% (based on dollar values) of these loans in our U.K. and France portfolios have been restructured.
48 GE 2010 ANNUAL REPORT
MANAGEMENT'S DISCUSSION AND ANALYSIS On January 1, 2010, we adopted ASU 2009-16 & 17, resulting in the consolidation of $40.2 billion of net financing receivables at January 1, 2010. We have provided comparisons of our financing receivables portfolio at December 31, 2010 to January 1, 2010, as we believe that it provides a more meaningful comparison of our portfolio quality following the adoption of ASU 2009-16 & 17.
The portfolio of financing receivables, before allowance for losses, was $327.3 billion at December 31, 2010, and $376.7 billion at January 1, 2010. Financing receivables, before allowance for losses, decreased $49.4 billion from January 1, 2010, primarily as a result of collections exceeding originations ($26.3 billion)l(which includes sales), write-offs ($10.1 billion), the stronger U.S. dollar
($2.1 billion) and dispositions ($1.2 billion), partially offset by acqui-sitions ($2.8 billion).
Related nonearning receivables totaled $11.6 billion (3.5% of outstanding receivables) at December 31, 2010, compared with
$14.2 billion (3.8% of outstanding receivables) at January 1, 2010.
Nonearning receivables decreased from January 1, 2010, primar-ily due to improvements in our entry rates in Consumer and improved performance in Commercial, offset by increased Real Estate delinquencies driven by the continued challenging envi-ronment in the commercial real estate markets.
The allowance for losses at December 31, 2010, totaled $8.1 bil-lion compared with $9.6 billion at January 1, 2010, representing our best estimate of probable losses inherent in the portfolio.
Allowance for losses decreased $1.5 billion from January 1, 2010, primarily because provisions were lower than write-offs, net of recoveries by $1.3 billion, which is attributable to a reduction in the overall financing receivables balance and an improvement in the overall credit environment. The allowance for losses as a percent of total financing receivables increased from 2.3% at December 31, 2009 to 2.5% at December 31, 2010, primarily due to the adoption of ASU 2009-16 & 17 on January 1, 2010. Further information surrounding the allowance for losses related to each of our portfolios is detailed below.
The following table provides information surrounding selected ratios related to nonearning financing receivables and the allow-ance for losses.
Nonearning financing receivables Allowar as a percent of financing receivables of nonea December 31, January 1, December 31, December 31, 2010 2 010(a) 2009 2010 nce for losses as a percent rning financing receivables January 1, December 31, 2 0 10(a) 2009 Allowance for losses as a percent of total financing receivables December 31, January 1, December 31, 2010 20 10 (a) 2009 COMMERCIAL CLL(b)
Americas Europe Asia Other Total CLL Energy Financial Services GECASIb)
Other Total Commercial 3.0%
3.3 3.4 0.3 3.0 0.9 5.7 2.7 3.4%
3.3 4.2 0.8 3.4 1.0 1.2 2.8 3.2 3.6%
3.5 4.4 0.8 3.6 1.0 1.2 2.8 3.3 50.1%
34.6 54.7 87.5 46.0 35.5 56.9 46.6 36.2%
39.9 41.9 45.8 37.8 35.9 68.0 47.2 38.7 37.4%
39.9 42.4 45.8 38.7 35.9 68.0 47.2 39.6 1.5%
1.1 1.9 0.3 1.4 0.3 0.2 3.2 1.3 1.2%
1.3 1.8 0.4 1.3 0.4 0.8 1.3 1.2 1.3%
1.4 1.8 0.4 1.4 0.4 0.8 1.3 1.3 REAL ESTATE Debt 3.2 2.6 2.6 134.4 144.3 144.6 4.3 3.7 3.7 Business properties 3.9 3.4 3.8 50.8 43.2 43.5 2.0 1.5 1.6 Total Real Estate 3.3 2.8 2.8 110.5 113.1 119.3 3.7 3.2 3.3 CONSUMER(b)
Non-U.S. residential mortgages 8.4 7.9 7.9 21.7 21.4 21.4 1.8 1.7 1.7 Non-U.S. installment and revolving credit 1.4 1.7 1.7 325.9 272.9 272.9 4.6 4.8 4.8 U.S. installment and revolving credit 2.7 3.7 4.2 194.3 194.2 186.4 5.3 7.2 7.7 Non-U.S. auto 0.5 0.5 0.5 362.5 459.1 459.1 2.0 2.4 2.4 Other 5.8 6.0 6.0 54.2 47.7 47.7 3.1 2.9 2.9 Total Consumer 4.6 4.8 5.2 77.9 82.2 67.0 3.6 4.0 3.5 Total 3.5 3.8 3.9 69.8 67.5 60.4 2.5 2.5 2.3 (a) Reflects the effects of our adoption of ASU 2009-16 & 17 on January 1, 2010. See Notes 6 and 23.
IbV During the first quarter of 2010, we transferred the Transportation Financial Services business from GECAS to CLL and the Consumer business in Italy from Consumer to CLL. Prior-period amounts were reclassified to conform to the current-period presentation.
Included below is a discussion of financing receivables, allowance for losses, nonearning receivables and related metrics for each of our significant portfolios.
CLL-AMERICAS. Nonearning receivables of $2.6 billion repre-sented 22.2% of total nonearning receivables at December 31, 2010. The ratio of allowance for losses as a percent of nonearn-ing receivables increased from 36.2% at January 1, 2010, to 50.1% at December 31, 2010, reflecting an overall decrease in nonearning receivables combined with a further slight increase in loss severity in our equipment, and franchise restaurant and hotel portfolios. The ratio of nonearning receivables as a percent of financing receivables decreased from 3.4% at January 1, 2010, to 3.0% at December 31, 2010, primarily due to reduced GE 2010 ANNUAL REPORT 49
MANAGEMENT'S DISCUSSION AND ANALYSIS nonearning exposures in our corporate lending, corporate air-craft, and industrial materials portfolios, which more than offset deterioration in our healthcare and franchise restaurant and hotel portfolios. Collateral supporting these nonearning financ-ing receivables primarily includes corporate aircraft and assets in the restaurant and hospitality, trucking, and forestry indus-tries, and for our leveraged finance business, equity of the underlying businesses.
CLL-EUROPE. Nonearning receivables of $1.2 billion represented 10.7% of total nonearning receivables at December 31, 2010.
The ratio of allowance for losses as a percent of nonearning receivables decreased from 39.9% at January 1, 2010, to 34.6%
at December 31, 2010, as a greater proportion of nonearning receivables was attributable to the Interbanca S.p.A. portfolio, which was acquired in 2009. The loans acquired with Interbanca S.p.A. were recorded at fair value, which incorporates an esti-mate at the acquisition date of credit losses over their remaining life. Accordingly, these loans generally have a lower ratio of allowance for losses as a percent of nonearning receivables compared to the remaining portfolio. Excluding the nonearning loans attributable to the 2009 acquisition of Interbanca S.p.A.,
the ratio of allowance for losses as a percent of nonearning receivables decreased slightly from 67.2% at January 1, 2010, to 65.7% at December 31, 2010, due to the increase of highly collateralized nonearning receivables in our senior secured lending portfolio, partially offset by a reduction in nonearning receivables in our senior secured lending and equipment finance portfolios due to restructuring, sale, or write-off. The ratio of nonearning receivables as a percent of financing receivables remained consistent at 3.3% at December 31, 2010, due to an increase in nonearning receivables in the Interbanca S.p.A.
portfolio offset by the decrease in nonearning receivables across our senior secured lending, equipment finance and asset-based lending portfolios, primarily for the reasons previously mentioned. Collateral supporting these secured nonearning financing receivables are primarily equity of the underlying businesses for our senior secured lending business and equip-ment and trade receivables for our equipment finance and asset-based lending portfolios, respectively.
CLL-ASIA. Nonearning receivables of $0.4 billion represented 3.5% of total nonearning receivables at December 31, 2010. The ratio of allowance for losses as a percent of nonearning receiv-ables increased from 41.9% at January 1, 2010, to 54.7% at December 31, 2010, primarily as a result of restructuring, sale or write-off of nonearning receivables in our asset-based financing businesses in Japan, which is highly collateralized. The ratio of nonearning receivables as a percent of financing receivables decreased from 4.2% at January 1, 2010, to 3.4% at December 31, 2010, primarily due to the decline in nonearning receivables related to our asset-based financing businesses in Japan, par-tially offset by a lower financing receivables balance. Collateral supporting these nonearning financing receivables is primarily commercial real estate, manufacturing equipment, corporate aircraft, and assets in the auto industry.
REAL ESTATE-DEBT. Nonearning receivables of $1.0 billion repre-sented 8.3%' of total nonearning receivables at December 31, 2010. The increase in nonearning receivables from January 1, 2010, was driven primarily by increased delinquencies in the U.S. office portfolio and the European hotel and retail portfolios, partially offset by foreclosures and discounted payoffs primarily related to U.S. multi-family loans. The ratio of allowance for losses as a percent of nonearning receivables decreased from 144.3% to 134.4% reflecting write-offs driven by settlements and payoffs from impaired loan borrowers. Since our approach identifies loans as impaired even when the loan is currently paying in accordance with contractual terms, increases in nonearning receivables do not necessarily require proportionate increases in reserves upon migration to nonearning status as specific reserves have often been established on the loans prior to their migration to nonearning status. The ratio of allowance for losses as a percent of total financing receivables increased from 3.7%
at January 1, 2010, to 4.3% at December 31, 2010, driven pri-marily by continued rental rate deterioration in the U.S. markets, which resulted in an increase in specific credit loss provisions.
The Real Estate financing receivables portfolio is collateralized by income-producing or owner-occupied commercial properties across a variety of asset classes and markets. At December 31, 2010, total Real Estate financing receivables of $40.2 billion were primarily collateralized by owner-occupied properties ($10.0 bil-lion), office buildings ($9.4 billion), apartment buildings
($6.2 billion) and hotel properties ($4.4 billion). In 2010, commercial real estate markets have continued to be under pressure, with limited market liquidity and challenging economic conditions. We have and continue to maintain an intense focus on operations and risk management. Loan loss reserves related to our Real Estate-Debt financing receivables are particularly sensitive to declines in underlying property values. Assuming global property values decline an incremental 1% or 5%, and that decline occurs evenly across geographies and asset classes, we estimate incremental loan loss reserves would be required of approximately $0.1 billion and $0.4 billion, respectively. Estimating the impact of global property values on loss performance across our portfolio depends on a number of factors, including macroeconomic condi-tions, property level operating performance, local market dynamics and individual borrower behavior. As a result, any sensi-tivity analyses or attempts to forecast potential losses carry a high degree of imprecision and are subject to change. At December 31, 2010, we had 116 foreclosed commercial real estate properties which had a value of approximately $0.6 billion.
CONSUMER-NON-U.S. RESIDENTIAL MORTGAGES. Nonearning receivables of $3.8 billion represented 33.0% of total non-earning receivables at December 31, 2010. The ratio of allowance for losses as a percent of nonearning receivables increased slightly from 21.4% at January 1, 2010, to 21.7%
at December 31, 2010. In 2010, our nonearning receivables decreased primarily due to continued collection and loss mitiga-tion efforts and signs of stabilization in the U.K. housing market.
Our non-U.S. mortgage portfolio has a loan-to-value ratio of approximately 75% at origination and the vast majority are first lien positions. Our U.K. and France portfolios, which comprise a majority of our total mortgage portfolio, have reindexed 50 GE 2010 ANNUAL REPORT
MANAGEMENT'S DISCUSSION AND ANALYSIS loan-to-value ratios of 83% and 60%, respectively. About 3% of these loans are without mortgage insurance and have a rein-dexed loan-to-value ratio equal to or greater than 100%.
Loan-to-value information is updated on a quarterly basis for a majority of our loans and considers economic factors such as the housing price index. At December 31, 2010, we had in repos-session stock approximately 700 houses in the U.K., which had a value of approximately $0.1 billion. The ratio of nonearning receivables as a percent of financing receivables increased from 7.9% at January 1, 2010, to 8.4% at December 31, 2010, primarily due to reduced originations across all platforms.
CONSUMER-NON-U.S. INSTALLMENT AND REVOLVING CREDIT.
Nonearning receivables of $0.3 billion represented 2.5% of total nonearning receivables at December 31, 2010. The ratio of allowance for losses as a percent of nonearning receivables increased from 272.9% at January 1, 2010, to 325.9% at December 31, 2010, reflecting changes in business mix following the reclassification of nonearning receivables to assets of busi-nesses held for sale following our commitment in 2010 to sell our Consumer businesses in Argentina, Brazil and Canada.
CONSUMER-U.S. INSTALLMENT AND REVOLVING CREDIT.
Nonearning receivables of $1.2 billion represented 10.4% of total nonearning receivables at December 31, 2010. The ratio of allowance for losses as a percent of nonearning receivables remained consistent at approximately 194.2%. The ratio of nonearning receivables as a percentage of financing receivables decreased from 3.7% at January 1, 2010, to 2.7% at December 31, 2010, primarily due to lower delinquencies reflecting an improvement in the overall credit environment.
Nonaccrual Financing Receivables The following table provides details related to our nonaccrual and nonearning financing receivables. Nonaccrual financing receivables include all nonearning receivables and are those on which we have stopped accruing interest. We stop accruing interdst at the earlier of the time at which collection becomes doubtful or the account becomes 90 days past due. Substan-tially all of the differences between nonearning and nonaccrual financing receivables relate to loans which are classified as nonaccrual financing receivables but are paying on a cash accounting basis, and therefore excluded from nonearning receivables. Of our $21.4 billion nonaccrual loans at December 31, 2010, $9.3 billion are currently paying in accordance with their contractual terms.
Impaired Loans "Impaired" loans in the table below are defined as larger-balance or restructured loans for which it is probable that the lender will be unable to collect all amounts due according to original con-tractual terms of the loan agreement. The vast majority of our Consumer and a portion of our CLL nonaccrual receivables are excluded from this definition, as they represent smaller-balance homogeneous loans that we evaluate collectively by portfolio for impairment.
Impaired loans include nonearning receivables on larger-balance or restructured loans, loans that are currently paying interest under the cash basis (but are excluded from the non-earning category), and loans paying currently but which have been previously restructured.
Specific reserves are recorded for individually impaired loans to the extent we have determined that it is probable that we will be unable to collect all amounts due according to original con-tractual terms of the loan agreement. Certain loans classified as impaired may not require a reserve because we believe that we will ultimately collect the unpaid balance (through collection or collateral repossession).
Further information pertaining to loans classified as impaired and specific reserves is included in the table below.
At December 31, January 1, December 31, (In millions) 2010 2010(a) 2009 LOANS REQUIRING ALLOWANCE FOR LOSSES Commerciallb)
$ 2,733
$ 2,853
$ 2,876 Real Estate 6,812 5,339 5,284 Consumer 2,448 1,300 936 Total loans requiring allowance for losses 11,993 9,492 9,096 LOANS EXPECTED TO BE FULLY RECOVERABLE Commercial(b) 3,087 2,232 2,110 Real Estate 3,005 1,284 1,234 Consumer 106 397 397 Total loans expected to be fully recoverable 6,198 3,913 3,741 TOTAL IMPAIRED LOANS
$18,191
$13,405
$12,837 ALLOWANCE FOR LOSSES (SPECIFIC RESERVES)
Commercial(b)
$ 1,031
$ 1,031
$ 1,073 Real Estate 1,150 1,038 1,017 Consumer 555 301 235 Total allowance for losses (specific reserves)
$ 2,736
$ 2,370
$ 2,325 Average investment dyring the period
$15,543 (d) $ 8,462 Interest income earned while impairedlc) 392 (d) 219 (a) Reflects the effects of our adoption of ASU 2009-16 & 17 on January 1, 2010.
See Notes 6 and 23.
(b) Includes CLL, Energy Financial Services, GECAS and Other.
(c) Recognized principally on a cash basis for the years ended December 31, 2010 and 2009, respectively.
(d) Not applicable.
Nonaccrual financing Nonearning December 31, 2010 (In millions) receivables receivables Commercial CLL
$ 5,246
$ 4,226 Energy Financial Services 78 62 GECAS Other 139 102 Total Commercial 5,463 4,390 Real Estate 9,719 1,347 Consumer 6,211 5,829 Total
$21,393
$11,566 GE 2010 ANNUAL REPORT 51
MANAGEMENT'S DISCUSSION AND ANALYSIS Impaired loans consolidated as a result of our adoption of ASU 2009-16 & 17 primarily related to our Consumer business.
Impaired loans increased by $4.8 billion from January 1, 2010, to December. 31, 2010, primarily relating to increases at Real Estate.
We regularly review our Real Estate loans for impairment using both quantitative and qualitative factors, such as debt service coverage and loan-to-value ratios. See Note 1. We classify Real Estate loans as impaired when the most recent valuation reflects a projected loan-to-value ratio at maturity in excess of 100%, even if the loan is currently paying in accordance with contractual terms. The increase in Real Estate impaired loans reflects deterioration in commercial real estate Values, particu-larly in Japan and the U.S., as well as an increase in troubled debt restructurings (TDRs). Real Estate specific reserves have not increased proportionately to the increase in impaired loans, primarily due to an increase in TDRs that are expected to be fully recoverable based on the value of the underlying collateral and are performing in accordance with their modified terms.
Of our $9.8 billion impaired loans at Real Estate at December 31, 2010, $8.1 billion are currently paying in accordance with the contractual terms of the loan and are typically loans where the borrower has adequate debt service coverage to meet contractual interest obligations. Impaired loans at CLL primarily represent senior secured lending positions.
Our impaired loan balance at December 31, 2010 and December 31, 2009, classified bythe method used to measure -
impairment was as follows.
At December 31, December 31, (In millions) 2010 2009 METHOD USED TO MEASURE IMPAIRMENT Discounted cash flow
$ 7,650
$ 6,971 Collateral value 10,541 5,866 Total
$18,191
$12,837 primarily concentrated in our U.S. credit card and non-U.S. resi-dential mortgage portfolios.We sold our U.S. residential mortgage business in 2007 and as such, do not participate in the U.S. government-sponsored mortgage modification programs.
During 2010, we provided short-term modifications of approxi-mately $2.7 billion of consumer loans for borrowers experiencing financial difficulties. This included approximately $1.2 billion of credit card loans in the U.S. and approximately $1.5 billion of other consumer loans, primarily non-U.S. residential mortgages, credit cards and personal loans, which were not classified as TDRs. For these modified loans, we provided short-term (12 months or less) interest rate reductions and payment deferrals, which were not part of the terms of the original.contract. We expect borrowers whose loans have been modified under these short-term pro-grams to continue to be able to meet their contractual obligations upon the conclusion of the short-term modification. Our experi-ence indicates that a substantial majority of loan modifications during 2010 have been successful, as approximately $2.2 billion are performing in accordance with the revised contractual terms.
Delinquencies Additional information on delinquency rates at each of our major portfolios follows:
CLL Consumer Real Estate December 31, December 31, 2010 2009 2.1%
3.1%
8.1 9.4 4.4 4.3 See Note 1 for further information on collateral dependent loans and our valuation process.
Our loss mitigation strategy is intended to minimize economic loss and, at times, can result in rate reductions, principal forgive-ness, extensions, forbearance or other actions, which may cause the related loan to be classified as a TDR, and also as impaired.
Changes to Real Estate's loans primarily include maturity exten-sions, principal payment acceleration, changes to collateral terms and cash sweeps, which are in addition to, or sometimes in lieu of, fees and rate increases. The determination of whether these changes to the terms and conditions of our commercial loans meet the TDR criteria includes our consideration of all relevant facts and circumstances. At December 31, 2010, TDRs included in impaired loans were $10.1 billion, primarily relating to Real Estate
($4.9 billion), CLL ($2.9 billion) and Consumer ($2.3 billion). TDRs consolidated as a result of our adoption of ASU 2009-16 & 17 primarily related to our Consumer business ($0.4 billion).
We utilize certain short-term loan modification programs for borrowers experiencing temporary financial difficulties in our Consumer loan portfolio. These loan modification programs are Delinquency rates on commercial loans and leases decreased from December 31, 2009 to December 31, 2010, as a result of improvements in the global economic and credit environment.
We expect the global environment to show further signs of stabilization in 2011; however, the credit environment continues to be uncertain and may impact future levels of commercial delinquencies and provisions for losses on financing receivables.
Delinquency rates on consumer financing receivables decreased from December 31, 2009 to December 31, 2010, pri-marily due to improved collections and lower delinquency entry rates in our U.S. markets. We expect the global environment, along with U.S. unemployment levels, to further show signs of stabilization in 2011; however, the uncertain economic envi-ronment may result in higher provisions for loan losses. At December 31, 2010, approximately 41% of our U.S. portfolio, which consisted of credit cards, installment and revolving loans, were receivable from subprime borrowers. We had no U.S. sub-prime residential mortgage loans at December 31, 2010.
See Notes 6 and 23 for additional information.
Delinquency rates on Real Estate loans and leases increased from December 31,2009 to December 31, 2010, primarily reflecting continued challenging real estate market fundamentals, including reduced occupancy rates and rentals and the effects of real estate market liquidity, which despite stabilization in certain markets, continues to remain limited in many others. Slow economic recovery could result in a continuation of elevated delinquency levels and provisions for losses on financing receivables.
52 GE 2010 ANNUAL REPORT
MANAGEMENT'S DISCUSSION AND ANALYSIS OTHER GECS RECEIVABLES totaled $14.3 billion at December 31, 2010, and $18.6 billion at December 31, 2009, and consisted primarily of amounts due from GE (primarily related to material procurement programs of $2.7 billion and $2.5 billion at December 31, 2010 and 2009, respectively), insurance receiv-ables, nonfinancing customer receivables, amounts due under operating leases, amounts accrued from investment income and various sundry items. Amounts due from qualified special purpose entities (QSPEs) declined from $3.7 billion in 2009 to $0.1 billion in 2010 as a result of our adoption of ASU 2009-16 & 17.
PROPERTY, PLANT AND EQUIPMENT totaled $66.2 billion at December 31, 2010, down $2.8 billion from 2009, primarily reflecting a reduction in equipment leased to others and the deconsolidation of Regency by GECS. GE property, plant and equipment consisted of investments for its own productive use, whereas the largest element for GECS was equipment provided to third parties on operating leases. Details by category of investment are presented in Note 7.
GE additions to property, plant and equipment totaled $2.4 bil-lion in both 2010 and 2009, respectively. Total expenditures, excluding equipment leased to others, for the past five years were
$13.5 billion, of which 40% was investment for growth through new capacity and product development; 25% was investment in productivity through new equipment and process improvements; and 35% was investment for other purposes such as improve-ment of research and development facilities and safety and environmental protection.
GECS additions to property, plant and equipment were
$7.7 billion and $6.4 billion during 2010 and 2009, respectively, primarily reflecting acquisitions and additions of commercial aircraft at GECAS, offset by disposals of fleet vehicles at CLL.
GOODWILL AND OTHER INTANGIBLE ASSETS totaled $64.5 billion and $10.0 billion, respectively, at December 31, 2010. Goodwill decreased $0.6 billion from 2009, primarily from the deconsoli-dation of Regency and the strengthening of the U.S. dollar, partially offset by the acquisition of Clarient, Inc. Other intan-gible assets decreased $1.8 billion from 2009, primarily from dispositions and amortization expense. See Note 8.
ALL OTHER ASSETS comprise mainly real estate equity properties and investments, equity and cost method investments, contract costs and estimated earnings, derivative instruments and assets held for sale, and totaled $96.3 billion at December 31, 2010, a decrease of $6.9 billion, primarily related to declines in our real estate equity properties due to impairments, depreciation and the strengthening of the U.S. dollar. During 2010, we recognized other-than-temporary impairments of cost and equity method investments, excluding those related to real estate, of $0.1 billion.
Included in other assets are Real Estate equity investments of
$27.2 billion and $32.2 billion at December 31, 2010 and 2009, respectively. Our portfolio is diversified, both geographically and by asset type. We review the estimated values of our commercial real estate investments semi-annually. As of our most recent estimate performed in 2010, the carrying value of our Real Estate investments exceeded their estimated value by approximately
$5.1 billion. The estimated value of the portfolio continues to reflect deterioration in real estate values and market fundamen-tals, including reduced market occupancy rates and market rents as well as the effects of limited real estate market liquidity. Given the current and expected challenging market conditions, there continues to be risk and uncertainty surrounding commercial real estate values. Declines in estimated value of real estate below carrying amount result in impairment losses when the aggregate undiscounted cash flow estimates used in the estimated value measurement are below the carrying amount. As such, estimated losses in the portfolio will not necessarily result in recognized impairment losses. During 2010, Real Estate recognized pre-tax impairments of $2.3 billion in its real estate held for investment,
.compared with $0.8 billion in 2009. Real Estate investments with undiscounted cash flows in excess of carrying value of 0% to 5%
at December 31, 2010 had a carrying value of $1.8 billion and an associated unrealized loss of approximately $0.4 billion. Contin-ued deterioration in economic conditions or prolonged market illiquidity may result in further impairments being recognized.
Contract costs and estimated earnings reflect revenues earned in excess of billings on our long-term contracts to con-struct technically complex equipment (such as power generation, aircraft engines and aeroderivative units) and long-term product maintenance or extended warranty arrangements. Our total contract costs and estimated earnings balances at December 31, 2010 and 2009, were $8.1 billion and $7.7 billion, respectively, reflecting the timing of billing in relation to work performed, as well as changes in estimates of future revenues and costs. Our total contract costs and estimated earnings balance at December 31, 2010, primarily related to customers in our Energy, Aviation and Transportation businesses. Further information is provided in the Critical Accounting Estimates section.
LIQUIDITY AND BORROWINGS We maintain a strong focus on liquidity. At both GE and GECS we manage our liquidity to help ensure access to sufficient funding at acceptable costs to meet our business needs and financial obligations throughout business cycles.
Our liquidity and borrowing plans for GE and GECS are estab-lished within the context of our annual financial and strategic planning processes. At GE, our liquidity and funding plans take into account the liquidity necessary to fund our operating com-mitments, which include primarily purchase obligations for inventory and equipment, payroll and general expenses. We also take into account our capital allocation and growth objectives, including paying dividends, repurchasing shares, investing in research and development and acquiring industrial businesses.
At GE, we rely primarily on cash generated through our operating activities and also have historically maintained a commercial paper program that we regularly use to fund operations in the U.S., principally within fiscal quarters.
GE 2010 ANNUAL REPORT 53
MANAGEMENT'S DISCUSSION AND ANALYSIS GECS liquidity and funding plans are designed to meet GECS' funding requirements under normal and stress scenarios, which include primarily extensions of credit, payroll, principal payments on outstanding borrowings, interest on borrowings, dividends to GE, and general obligations such as operating expenses, collateral deposits held or collateral posted to counterparties. GECS' fund-ing plan also has been developed in connection with our strategy to reduce our ending net investment in GE Capital. GECS relies on cash generated through collection of principal, interest and other payments on our existing portfolio of loans and leases, sales of assets, and unsecured and secured funding sources, including commercial paper, term debt, bank borrowings, securitization and other retail funding products.
Our 2011 GECS funding plan anticipates repayment of principal on outstanding short-term borrowings, including the current portion of our long-term debt ($118.8 billion at December 31, 2010), through issuance of commercial paper and long-term debt, cash on hand, collections of financing receivables exceeding originations, dispositions, asset sales, and deposits and alterna-tive sources of funding. Interest on borrowings is primarily repaid through interest earned on existing financing receivables. During 2010, GECS earned interest income on financing receivables of $24.1 billion, which more than offset interest expense of
$15.0 billion.
Both the GECS Board of Directors and the GE Audit Committee have approved a detailed liquidity policy for GECS, which includes a requirement to maintain a contingency funding plan. The liquid-ity policy defines GECS' liquidity risk tolerance under different scenarios based on its liquidity sources and also establishes procedures to escalate potential issues. We actively monitor GECS' access to funding markets and liquidity profile through tracking external indicators and testing various stress scenarios. The contingency funding plan provides a framework for handling market disruptions and establishes escalation procedures in the event that such events or circumstances arise.
Actions taken to strengthen and maintain our liquidity are described in the following section.
Liquidity Sources We maintain liquidity sources that consist of cash and equiva-lents and a portfolio of high-quality, liquid investments (Liquidity Portfolio) and committed unused credit lines.
We have cash and equivalents of $79.0 billion at December 31, 2010, which is available to meet our needs. A substantial portion of this is freely available. About $10 billion is in regulated entities and is subject to regulatory restrictions or is in restricted coun-tries. About $18 billion is held outside the U.S. and is available to fund operations and other growth of non-U.S. subsidiaries; it is also available to fund our needs in the U.S. on a short-term basis without being subject to U.S. tax. We anticipate that we will con-tinue to generate cash from operating activities in the future, which will be available to help meet our liquidity needs.
In addition to our $79 billion of cash and equivalents, we have a centrally managed portfolio of high-quality, liquid investments with a fair value of $2.9 billion at December 31, 2010. The Liquidity Portfolio is used to manage liquidity and meet the operating needs of GECS under both normal and stress scenarios. The investments consist of unencumbered U.S. government securi-ties, U.S. agency securities, securities guaranteed by the government, supranational securities, and a select group of non-U.S. government securities. We believe that we can readily obtain cash for these securities, even in stressed market conditions.
We have committed, unused credit lines totaling $51.8 billion that have been extended to us by 58 financial institutions at December 31, 2010. These lines include $35.6 billion of revolving credit agreements under which we can borrow funds for periods exceeding one year. Additionally, $16.2 billion are 364-day lines that contain a term-out feature that allows us to extend borrow-ings for one year from the date of expiration of the lending agreement. During 2010, we renewed all of the 364-day lines and we extended the term of $23 billion of multi-year lines by one year to 2013.
At December 31, 2010, our aggregate cash and equivalents and committed credit lines were more than twice GECS' com-mercial paper borrowings balance.
Funding Plan Our strategy has been to reduce our ending net investment in GE Capital. In 2010, we reduced our GE Capital ending net investment, excluding cash and equivalents, from $526 billion at January 1, 2010 to $477 billion at December 31, 2010.
In 2010, we completed issuances of $25 billion of senior, unse-cured debt with maturities up to 17 years (and subsequent to December 31, 2010, an additional $11 billion). Average commercial paper borrowings for GECS and GE during the fourth quarter were
$40.1 billion and $6.0 billion, respectively, and the maximum amount of commercial paper borrowings outstanding for GECS and GE during the fourth quarter was $42.4 billion and $7.2 billion, respectively. GECS commercial paper maturities are funded prin-cipally through new issuances and at GE are repaid by quarter-end using available cash.
Under the Federal Deposit Insurance Corporation's (FDIC)
Temporary Liquidity Guarantee Program (TLGP), the FDIC guaran-teed certain senior, unsecured debt issued by GECC on or before October 31, 2009, for which we incurred $2.3 billion of fees for our participation. Our TLGP-guaranteed debt has remaining maturi-ties of $18 billion in 2011 ($2.5 billion matured in January 2011) and $35 billion in 2012. We anticipate funding these and our other long-term debt maturities through a combination of existing cash, new debt issuances, collections exceeding originations, disposi-tions, asset sales, deposits and alternative sources of funding.
GECC and GE are parties to an Eligible Entity Designation Agreement and GECC is subject to the terms of a Master Agreement, each entered into with the FDIC. The terms of these agreements include, among other things, a requirement that GE and GECC reimburse 54 GE 2010 ANNUAL REPORT
MANAGEMENT'S DISCUSSION AND ANALYSIS the FDIC for any amounts that the FDIC pays to holders of GECC
-debt that is guaranteed by the FDIC.
We securitize financial assets as an alternative source of funding. On January 1, 2010, we adopted ASU 2009-16 & 17, which resulted in the consolidation of $36.1 billion of non-recourse borrowings from all of our securitization QSPEs. During 2010, we completed $10.3 billion of non-recourse issuances and had maturities of $22.3 billion. At December 31, 2010, consolidated non-recourse borrowings were $30.1 billion. We anticipate that securitization will remain a part of our overall funding capabilities notwithstanding the changes in consolidation rules described in Notes l and 24.
Our issuances of securities repurchase agreements are insig-nificant and are limited to activities at certain of our foreign banks.
At December 31, 2010 and 2009, we were party to repurchase agreements totaling insignificant amounts, which were accounted for as on-book financings. We have had no repurchase agree-ments which were not accounted for as financings and we do not engage in securities lending transactions.
We have deposit-taking capability at 10 banks outside of the U.S. and two banks in the U.S.-GE Money Bank, a Federal Savings Bank (FSB), and GE Capital Financial Inc., an industrial bank 1B). The FSB and IB currently issue certificates of deposit (CDs) distributed by brokers in maturity terms from three months to ten years.
Total alternative funding at December 31, 2010 was $60 billion, composed mainly of $37 billion of bank deposits, $11 billion of funding secured by real estate, aircraft and other collateral and
$9 billion of GE Interest Plus notes. The comparable amount at December 31, 2009 was $57 billion.
EXCHANGE RATE AND INTEREST RATE RISKS are managed with a variety of techniques, including match funding and selective use of derivatives. We use derivatives to mitigate or eliminate cer-tain financial and market risks because we conduct business in diverse markets around the world and local funding is not always efficient. In addition, we use derivatives to adjust the debt we are issuing to match the fixed or floating nature of the assets we are originating. We apply strict policies to man-age each of these risks, including prohibitions on speculative activities. Following is an analysis of the potential effects of changes in interest rates and currency exchange rates using so-called "shock" tests that model effects of shifts in rates.,
These are not forecasts.
It is our policy to minimize exposbire to interest rate changes.
We fund our financial investments using debt or a combination of debt and hedging instruments so that the interest rates of our borrowings match the expected interest rate profile on our assets. To test the effectiveness of our fixed rate positions, we assumed that, on January 1, 2011, interest rates increased by 100 basis points across the yield curve Ia "parallel shift" in that curve) and further assumed that the increase remained in place for 2011. We estimated, based on the year-end 2010 portfolio and holding all other assumptions constant, that our 2011 consolidated earnings would decline by $0.1 billion as a result of this parallel shift in the yield curve.
It is our policy to minimize currency exposures and to conduct operations either within functional currencies or using the protection of hedge strategies. We analyzed year-end 2010 consolidated currency exposures, including derivatives desig-nated and effective as hedges, to identify assets and liabilities denominated in other than their relevant functional curren-cies. For such assets and liabilities, we then evaluated the effects of a 10% shift in exchange rates between those cur-rencies and the U.S. dollar, holding all other assumptions constant. This analysis indicated that there would be an insignificant effect on 2011 earnings of such a shift in exchange rates.
Debt and Derivative Instruments, Guarantees and Covenants PRINCIPAL DEBT AND DERIVATIVE CONDITIONS are described below.
Certain of our derivative instruments can be terminated if specified credit ratings are not maintained and certain debt and derivatives agreements of other consolidated entities have provisions that are affected by these credit ratings. As of December 31, 2010, GE and GECC's long-term unsecured debt credit rating from Standard and Poor's Ratings Service (S&P) was "AA+" with a stable outlook and from Moody's Investors Service
("Moody's") was "Aa2" with a stable outlook. As of December 31, 2010, GE, GECS and GECC's short-term credit rating from S&P was "A-l+" and from Moody's was "P-1' We are disclosing these ratings to enhance understanding of our sources of liquidity and the effects of our ratings on our costs of funds. Although we currently do not expect a downgrade in the credit ratings, our ratings may be subject to revision or withdrawal at any time by the assigning rating organization, and each rating should be evaluated independently of any other rating.
Derivatives agreements:
Swap, forward and option contracts are executed under standard master agreements that typically contain mutual downgrade provisions that provide the ability of the counterparty to require termination if the long-term credit rating of the applicable GE entity were to fall below A-/A3. In certain of these master agreements, the counterparty also has the ability to require termination if the short-term rating of the applicable GE entity were to fall below A-1/P-1.
The net derivative liability after con-sideration of netting arrangements, outstanding interest payments and collateral posted by us under these master
- agreements was estimated to be $1.0 billion at December 31, 2010. See Note 22.
GE 2010 ANNUAL REPORT 55
MANAGEMENT'S DISCUSSION AND ANALYSIS Other debt and derivative agreements of consolidated entities:
" One group of consolidated entities holds investment securities funded by the issuance of GICs. If the long-term credit rating of GECC were to fall below AA-/Aa3 or its short-term credit rating were to fall below A-I+/P-1, GECC would be required to provide approximately $1.5 billion to such entities as of December 31, 2010, pursuant to letters of credit issued by GECC, as com-pared to $2.4 billion at December 31, 2009. Furthermore, to the extent that the entities' liabilities exceed the ultimate value of the proceeds from the sale of its assets and the amount drawn under the letters of credit, GECC is required to provide such excess amount. As of December 31, 2010, the value of these entities' liabilities was $5.7 billion and the fair value of its assets was $6.0 billion (which included unrealized losses on investment securities of $0.7 billion). With respect to these investment securities, we intend to hold them at least until such time as their individual fair values exceed their amortized cost and we have the ability to hold all such debt securities until maturity.
" Another consolidated entity also issues GICs where proceeds are loaned to GECC. If the long-term credit rating of GECC were to fall below AA-/Aa3 or its short-term credit rating were to fall below A-1+/P-1, GECC could be required to provide up to approximately $2.3 billion as of December 31, 2010, to repay holders of GICs, compared to $3.0 billion at December 31, 2009. These obligations are included in long-term borrowings in our Statement of Financial Position.
" If the short-term credit rating of GECC were reduced below A-l/P-1, GECC would be required to partially cash collateralize certain covered bonds. The maximum amount that would be required to be provided in the event of such a downgrade is determined by contract and amounted to $0.8 billion at both December 31, 2010 and 2009. These obligations are included in long-term borrowings in our Statement of Financial Position.
RATIO OF EARNINGS TO FIXED CHARGES, INCOME MAINTENANCE AGREEMENT AND SUBORDINATED DEBENTURES. On March 28, 1991, GE entered into an agreement with GECC to make pay-ments to GECC, constituting additions to pre-tax income under the agreement, to the extent necessary to cause the ratio of earnings to fixed charges of GECC and consolidated affiliates (determined on a consolidated basis) to be not less than 1.10:1 for the period, as a single aggregation, of each GECC fiscal year commencing with fiscal year 1991. GECC's ratio of earnings to fixed charges increased to 1.13:1 during 2010 due to higher pre-tax earnings at GECC, which were primarily driven by higher margins and lower provisions for losses on financing receivables.
On October 29, 2009, GE and GECC amended this agreement to extend the notice period for termination from three years to five years. It was further amended to provide that any future amendments to the agreement that could adversely affect GECC require the consent of the majority of the holders of the aggregate outstanding principal amount of senior unsecured debt securities issued or guaranteed by GECC (with an original stated maturity in excess of 270 days), unless the amendment does not trigger a downgrade of GECC's long-term ratings. No payment is required in 2011 pursuant to this agreement.
GE made a $9.5 billion payment to GECS in the first quarter of 2009 (of which $8.8 billion was further contributed to GECC through capital contribution and share issuance) to improve tangible capital and reduce leverage. This payment constitutes an addition to pre-tax income under the agreement and therefore increased the ratio of earnings to fixed charges of GECC for the fiscal year 2009 for purposes of the agreement to 1.33:1. As a result, no further payments under the agreement in 2010 were required related to 2009.
Any payment made under the Income Maintenance Agreement will not affect the ratio of earnings to fixed charges as determined in accordance with current SEC rules because it does not consti-tute an addition to pre-tax income under current U.S. GAAP.
In addition, in connection with certain subordinated deben-tures for which GECC receives equity credit by rating agencies, GE has agreed to promptly return dividends, distributions or other payments it receives from GECC during events of default or inter-est deferral periods under such subordinated debentures. There were $7.3 billion of such debentures outstanding at December 31, 2010. See Note 10.
Consolidated Statement of Changes in Shareowners' Equity GE shareowners' equity increased by $1.6 billion in 2010, com-pared with an increase of $12.6 billion in 2009 and a decrease of
$10.9 billion in 2008.
Net earnings increased GE shareowners' equity by $11.6 bil-lion, $11.0 billion and $17.4 billion, partially offset by dividends declared of $5.2 billion, $6.8 billion and $12.6 billion in 2010, 2009 and 2008, respectively.
Elements of other comprehensive income decreased share-owners' equity by $2.3 billion in 2010, compared with an increase of $6.6 billion in 2009 and a decrease of $30.2 billion in 2008, inclusive of changes in accounting principles. The components of these changes are as follows:
" Changes in benefit plans increased shareowners' equity by
$1.1 billion in 2010, primarily reflecting prior service cost and net actuarial loss amortization and increases in the fair value of plan assets, partially offset by a decrease in the discount rate used to value pension and postretirement benefit obligations.
This compared with a decrease of $1.8 billion and $13.3 billion in 2009 and 2008, respectively. The decrease in 2009 primarily related to a decrease in the discount rate used to value pension and postretirement benefit obligations. The decrease in 2008 primarily related to declines in the fair value of plan assets as a result of market conditions and adverse changes in the eco-nomic environment. Further information about changes in benefit plans is provided in Note 12.
" Currency translation adjustments decreased shareowners' equity by $3.9 billion in 2010, increased equity by $4.1 billion in 2009 and decreased equity by $11.0 billion in 2008. Changes in currency translation adjustments reflect the effects of 56 GE 2010 ANNUAL REPORT
MANAGEMENT'S DISCUSSION AND ANALYSIS changes in currency exchange rates on our net investment in non-U.S. subsidiaries that have functional currencies other than the U.S. dollar. At the end of 2010, the U.S. dollar was stronger against most major currencies, including the pound sterling and the euro and weaker against the Australian dollar, compared with a weaker dollar against those currencies at the end of 2009 and a stronger dollar against those currencies at the end of 2008. The dollar was weaker against the Japanese yen in 2008.
" The change in fair value of investment securities increased shareowners' equity by an insignificant amount in 2010, reflecting improved market conditions related to U.S.
corporate securities and lower market interest rates and adjustments to reflect the effect of the unrealized gains on insurance-related assets and equity. The change in fair value of investment securities increased shareowners' equity by
$2.7 billion and decreased shareowners' equity by $3.2 billion in 2009 and 2008, respectively. Further information about investment securities is provided in Note 3.
" Changes in the fair value of derivatives designated as cash flow hedges increased shareowners' equity by $0.5 billion in 2010, primarily related to the effective portion of the change in fair value of designated interest rate and cross currency hedges and other comprehensive income (OCI) released to earnings to match the underlying forecasted cash flows. The change in the fair value of derivatives designated as cash flow hedges increased equity by $1.6 billion and decreased equity by $2.7 billion in 2009 and 2008, respectively. Further informa-tion about the fair value of derivatives is provided in Note 22.
We took a number of actions in 2008 and 2009 to strengthen our liquidity. Such actions also had an effect on shareowners' equity, which included a $15 billion addition to equity through common and preferred stock offerings in the fourth quarter of 2008.
Statement of Cash Flows-Overview from 2008 through 2010 Consolidated cash and equivalents were $79.0 billion at December 31, 2010, an increase of $8.5 billion from December 31, 2009. Cash and equivalents totaled $70.5 billion at December 31, 2009, an increase of $22.4 billion from December 31, 2008.
We evaluate our cash flow performance by reviewing our industrial (non-financial services) businesses and financial services businesses separately. Cash from operating activities (CFOA) is the principal source.of cash generation for our industrial businesses.
The industrial businesses also have liquidity available via the public capital markets. Our financial services businesses use a variety of financial resources to meet our capital needs. Cash for financial services businesses is primarily provided from the issuance of term debt and commercial paper in the public and private markets, as well as financing receivables collections, sales and securitizations.
GE Cash Flow GE cash and equivalents were $19.2 billion at December 31, 2010, compared with $8.7 billion at December 31, 2009. GE CFOA totaled
$14.7 billion in 2010 compared with $16.4 billion and $19.1 billion in 2009 and 2008, respectively. With respect to GE CFOA, we believe that it is useful to supplement our GE Statement of Cash Flows and to examine in a broader context the business activi-ties that provide and require cash..
December 31 (In billionsl 2010 2009 2008 Operating cash collections(a)
$98.2
$104.1
$115.5 Operating cash payments (83.5)
(87.7)
(98.8)
Cash dividends from GECS 2.4 GE cash from operating activities (GE CFOA)(a)
$14.7
$ 16.4
$ 19.1 (a) GE sells customer receivables to GECS in part to fund the growth of our industrial businesses. These transactions can result in cash generation or cash use. During any given period, GE receives cash from the sale of receivables to GECS. It also foregoes collection of cash on receivables sold. The incremental amount of cash received from sale of receivables in excess of the cash GE would have otherwise collected had those receivables not been sold, represents the cash generated or used in the period relating to this activity. The incremental cash generated in GE CFOA from selling these receivables to GECS increased GE CFOA by
$0.3 billion and an insignificant amount in 2010 and 2009, respectively. See Note 27 for additional information about the elimination of intercompany transactions between GE and GECS.
The most significant source of cash in GE CFOA is customer-related activities, the largest of which is collecting cash following a product or services sale. GE operating cash collections decreased by $5.9 billion in 2010 and decreased by $11.4 billion in 2009. These changes are consistent with the changes in comparable GE operating segment revenues. Analyses of oper-ating segment revenues discussed in the preceding Segment Operations section are the best way of understanding their customer-related CFOA.
The most significant operating use of cash is to pay our sup-pliers, employees, tax authorities and others for a wide range of material and services. GE operating cash payments decreased in 2010 and 2009 by $4.2 billion and $11.1 billion, respectively.
These changes are consistent with the changes in GE total costs and expenses.
GE CFOA decreased $1.7 billion compared with 2009, primarily reflecting a decrease in progress collections compared to 2009.
In 2009, GE CFOA decreased $2.7 billion compared with 2008, pri-marily reflecting the lack of a dividend from GECS ($2.4 billion).
Dividends from GECS represented the distribution of a portion of GECS retained earnings and are distinct from cash from continu-ing operating activities within the financial services businesses.
The amounts included in GE CFOA are the total dividends, includ-ing normal dividends as well as any special dividends from excess capital, primarily resulting from GECS business sales. Beginning in the first quarter of 2009, GECS suspended its normal dividend to GE. There were no special dividends received from GECS in 2010, 2009 or 2008.
GE 2010 ANNUAL REPORT 57
MANAGEMENT'S DISCUSSION AND ANALYSIS GECS Cash Flow GECS cash and equivalents were $60.3 billion at December 31, 2010, compared with $62.6 billion at December 31, 2009. GECS cash from operating activities totaled $21.2 billion in 2010, compared with $7.4 billion in 2009. This was primarily due to decreases, compared to the prior year, in net cash collateral held from counterparties on derivative contracts of $6.9 billion, in cash used for other liabilities of $1.5 billion, higher current-year earnings, and lower gains and higher impairments at Real Estate of $2.9 billion.
Consistent with our plan to reduce GECS asset levels, cash from investing activities was $36.4 billion in 2010. Primary sources were
$26.3 billion resulting from a reduction in financing receivables, primarily from collections exceeding originations, a $1.8 billion reduction in investment securities, and $1.6 billion of recoveries of financing receivables previously written off. Additionally, we received proceeds of $2.5 billion from sales of discontinued opera-tions, primarily BAC, and $1.2 billion resulted from proceeds from business dispositions, including the consumer businesses in Hong Kong and Indonesia. These sources were partially offset by cash used for acquisitions of $0.6 billion for the acquisition of certain financing businesses of the Royal Bank of Scotland.
GECS cash used for financing activities in 2010 reflected our continued reduction in ending net investment. Cash used for financing activities of $59.6 billion related primarily to a Contractual Obligations
$60.3 billion reduction in borrowings consisting primarily of reductions in long-term borrowings (which includes reductions related to borrowings consolidated upon the adoption of ASU 2009-16 & 17) and commercial paper, partially offset by a
$4.6 billion increase in bank deposits.
GECS pays dividends to GE through a distribution of its retained earnings, including special dividends from proceeds of certain business sales. Beginning in the first quarter of 2009, GECS suspended its normal dividend to GE. Dividends paid to GE in 2008 were $2.4 billion. There were no special dividends paid to GE in 2010, 2009 or 2008.
Intercompony Eliminations Effects of transactions between related companies are elimi-nated and consist primarily of GECS dividends to GE or capital contributions from GE to GECS; GE customer receivables sold to GECS; GECS services for trade receivables management and material procurement; buildings and equipment (including auto-mobiles) leased between GE and GECS; information technology (IT) and other services sold to GECS by GE; aircraft engines manufactured by GE that are installed on aircraft purchased by GECS from third-party producers for lease to others; and various investments, loans and allocations of GE corporate overhead costs. For further information related to intercompany elimina-tions, see Note 27.
As defined by reporting regulations, our contractual obligations for future payments as of December 31, 2010, follow.
Payments due by period 2016 and (In billions)
Total 2011 2012-2013 2014-2015 thereafter Borrowings and bank deposits (Note 10)
$478.6
$153.9
$146.1
$56.9
$121.7 Interest on borrowings and bank deposits 113.7 13.2 18.5 12.1 69.9 Operating lease obligations (Note 19) 4.8 1.1 1.6
-0.9 1.2 Purchase obligations(a)(b) 54.7 34.0 13.2 5.9 1.6 Insurance liabilities (Note 11)(c) 24.8 2.8 3.8 3.3 14.9 Other liabilities(d) 65.2 24.8 11.6 6.3 22.5 Contractual obligations of discontinued operationsle) 2.1 2.1 (a) Included all take-or-pay arrangements, capital expenditures, contractual commitments to purchase equipment that will be leased to others, contractual commitments related to factoring agreements, software acquisition/license commitments, contractual minimum programming commitments and any contractually required cash payments for acquisitions.
Mb) Excluded funding commitments entered into in the ordinary course of business by our financial services businesses. Further information on these commitments and other guarantees is provided in Note 25.
(c) Included contracts with reasonably determinable cash flows such as structured settlements, certain property and casualty contracts, and guaranteed investment contracts.
(d) Included an estimate of future expected funding requirements related to our pension and postretirement benefit plans and included liabilities for unrecognized tax benefits. Because their future cash outflows are uncertain, the following non-current liabilities are excluded from the table above: deferred taxes, derivatives, deferred revenue and other sundry items. For further information on certain of these items, see Notes 14 and 22.
(e) Included payments for other liabilities, 58 GE 2010 ANNUAL REPORT
MANAGEMENT'S DISCUSSION AND ANALYSIS Variable Interest Entities We securitize financial assets and arrange other forms of asset-backed financing in the ordinary course of business to improve shareowner returns and as an alternative source of funding. The securitization transactions we engage in are similar to those used by many financial institutions.
The assets we securitize include: receivables secured by equip-ment, commercial real estate, credit card receivables, floorplan inventory receivables, GE trade receivables and other assets originated and underwritten by us in the ordinary course of business. The securitizations are funded with asset-backed com-mercial paper and term debt. Our securitization activities prior to January 1, 2010 used QSPEs and were therefore not required to be consolidated.
On January 1, 2010, we adopted ASU 2009-16 & 17. ASU 2009-16 eliminated the QSPE concept, and ASU 2009-17 required that all such entities be evaluated for consolidation as variable interest entities (VIEs). Adoption of these amendments resulted in the consolidation of all of our sponsored QSPEs. In addition, we con-solidated assets of VIEs related to direct investments in entities that hold loans and fixed income securities, a media joint venture and a small number of companies to which we have extended loans in the ordinary course of business and subsequently were subject to a TOR.
Substantially all of our securitization VIEs are consolidated because we are considered to be the primary beneficiary of the entity. Our interests in other VIEs for which we are not the primary, beneficiary and QSPEs are accounted for as investment securities, financing receivables or equity method investments depending on the nature of our involvement.
We consolidated the assets and liabilities of these entities at amounts at which they would have been reported in our financial statements had we always consolidated them. We also decon-solidated certain entities where we did not meet the definition of the primary beneficiary under the revised guidance; however, the effect was insignificant at January 1, 2010. The incremental effect on total assets and liabilities, net of our retained interests, was an increase of $31.1 billion and $33.0 billion, respectively, at January 1, 2010. The net reduction of total equity (including non-controlling interests) was $1.9 billion at January 1, 2010, principally related to the reversal of previously recognized securitization gains as a cumulative effect adjustment to retained earnings.
At December 31, 2010, consolidated variable interest entity assets and liabilities were $50.7 billion and $38.3 billion, respec-tively, an increase of $33.7 billion and $23.1 billion from 2009, respectively. Assets held by these entities are of equivalent credit quality to our on-book assets. We monitor the under-lying credit quality in accordance with our role as servicer and apply rigorous controls to the execution of securitization trans-actions. With the exception of credit and liquidity support discussed below, investors in these entities have recourse only to the underlying assets.
At December 31, 2009, prior to the effective date of ASU 2009-16 & 17, our Statement of Financial Position included $11.8 billion in retained interests in these entities related to the transferred financial assets discussed above. These retained interests took two forms: (1) sellers' interests, which were classified as financing receivables, and (2) subordinated interests, designed to provide credit enhancement to senior interests, which were classified as investment securities. The carrying value of our retained interests classified as financing receivables was $3.0 billion at December 31, 2009. The carrying value of our retained interests classified as investment securities was $8.8 billion at December 31, 2009.
At December 31, 2010, investments in unconsolidated VIEs, including our noncontrolling interest in PTL and investments in real estate entities, were $12.6 billion, an increase of $2.9 billion from 2009, primarily related to $1.7 billion of investments in enti-ties whose status as a VIE changed upon adoption of ASU 2009-17 and $1.2 billion of additional investment in pre-existing unconsoli-dated VIEs. In addition to our existing investments, we have contractual obligations to fund additional investments in the unconsolidated VIEs of $2.0 billion, an increase of $0.6 billion from 2009.
We are party to various credit enhancement positions with securitization entities, including liquidity and credit support agreements and guarantee and reimbursement contracts, and have provided our best estimate of the fair value of estimated losses on such positions. The estimate of fair value is based on prevailing market conditions at December 31, 2010. Should mar-ket conditions deteriorate, actual losses could be higher. Our exposure to loss under such agreements was limited to $0.9 bil-lion at December 31, 2010.
We do not have implicit support arrangements with any VIE or QSPE. We did not provide non-contractual support for previously transferred financing receivables to any-VIE or QSPE in either 2010 or 2009.
Critical Accounting Estimates Accounting estimates and assumptions discussed in this section are those that we consider to be the most critical to an under-standing of our financial statements because they involve significant judgments and uncertainties. Many of these estimates include determining fair value. All of these estimates reflect our best judgment about current, and for some estimates future, economic and market conditions and their effects based on information available as of the date of these financial statements.
If these conditions change from those expected, it is reasonably possible that the judgments and estimates described below could change, which may result in future impairments of invest-ment securities, goodwill, intangibles and long-lived assets, incremental losses on financing receivables,. increases in reserves for contingencies, establishment of valuation allowances on deferred tax assets and increased tax liabilities, among other effects. Also see Note 1, Summary of Significant Accounting Policies, which discusses the significant accounting policies that we have selected from acceptable alternatives.
LOSSES ON FINANCING RECEIVABLES are recognized when they are incurred, which requires us to make our best estimate of probable losses inherent in the portfolio. The method for calcu-lating the best estimate of losses depends on the size, type and GE 2010 ANNUAL REPORT 59
MANAGEMENT'S DISCUSSION AND ANALYSIS risk characteristics of the related financing receivable. Such an estimate requires consideration of historical loss experience, adjusted for current conditions, and judgments about the prob-able effects of relevant observable data, including present economic conditions such as delinquency rates, financial health of specific customers and market sectors, collateral values (including housing price indices as applicable), and the present and expected future levels of interest rates. The underlying assumptions, estimates and assessments we use to provide for losses are updated periodically to reflect our view of current conditions. Changes in such estimates can significantly affect the allowance and provision for losses. It is possible that we will experience credit losses that are different from our current estimates. Write-offs in both our consumer and commercial portfolios can also reflect both losses that are incurred subse-quent to the beginning of a fiscal year and information becoming available during that fiscal year which may identify further deterioration on exposures existing prior to the begin-ning of that fiscal year, and for which reserves could not have been previously recognized. Our risk management process includes standards and policies for reviewing major risk expo-sures and concentrations, and evaluates relevant data either for individual loans or financing leases, or on a portfolio basis, as appropriate.
Further information is provided in the Global Risk Management and Financial Resources and Liquidity-Financing Receivables sections, the Asset Impairment section that follows and in Notes 1, 6 and 23.
REVENUE RECOGNITION ON LONG-TERM PRODUCT SERVICES AGREEMENTS requires estimates of profits over the multiple-year terms of such agreements, considering factors such as the frequency and extent of future monitoring, maintenance and overhaul events; the amount of personnel, spare parts and other resources required to perform the services; and future billing rate and cost changes. We routinely review estimates under product services agreements and regularly revise them to adjust for changes in outlook. We also regularly assess cus-tomer credit risk inherent in the carrying amounts of receivables and contract costs and estimated earnings, including the risk that contractual penalties may not be sufficient to offset our accumulated investment in the event of customer termination.
We gain insight into future utilization and cost trends, as well as credit risk, through our knowledge of the installed base of equipment and the close interaction with our customers that comes with supplying critical services and parts over extended periods. Revisions that affect a product services agreement's total estimated profitability result in an adjustment of earnings; such adjustments decreased earnings by $0.2 billion in 2010, increased earnings by $0.2 billion in'2009 and decreased earnings by $0.2 billion in 2008. We provide for probable losses when they become evident.
Further information is provided in Notes l and 9.
ASSET IMPAIRMENT assessment involves various estimates and assumptions as follows:
Investments. We regularly review investment securities for impairment using both quantitative and qualitative criteria.
Effective April 1, 2009, the FASB amended ASC 320 and modified the requirements for recognizing and measuring other-than-temporary impairment for debt securities. If we do not intend to sell the security and it is not more likely than not that we will be required to sell the security before recovery of our amortized cost, we evaluate other qualitative criteria to determine whether a credit loss exists, such as the financial health of and specific prospects for the issuer, including whether the issuer is in compliance with the terms and covenants of the security. Quan-titative criteria include determining whether there has been an adverse change in expected future cash flows. For equity secu-rities, our criteria include the length of time and magnitude of the amount that each security is in an unrealized loss position.
Our other-than-temporary impairment reviews involve our finance, risk and asset management functions as well as the portfolio management and research capabilities of our internal and third-party asset managers. See Note 1, which discusses the determination of fair value of investment securities.
Further information about actual and potential impairment losses is provided in the Financial Resources and Liquidity-Investment Securities section and in Notes 1, 3 and 9.
Long-Lived Assets. We review long-lived assets for impairment whenever events or changes in circumstances indicate that the related carrying amounts may not be recoverable. Determining whether an impairment has occurred typically requires various estimates and assumptions, including determining which undis-counted cash flows are directly related to the potentially impaired asset, the useful life over which cash flows will occur, their amount, and the asset's residual value, if any. In turn, measurement of an impairment lossrequires a determination of fair value, which is based on the best information available. We derive the required undiscounted cash flow estimates from our historical experience and our internal business plans. To deter-mine fair value, we use quoted market prices when available, our internal cash flow estimates discounted at an appropriate interest rate and independent appraisals, as appropriate.
Our operating lease portfolio of commercial aircraft is a sig-nificant concentration of assets in GE Capital, and is particularly subject to market fluctuations. Therefore, we test recoverability of each aircraft in our operating lease portfolio at least annually.
Additionally, we perform quarterly evaluations in circumstances such as when aircraft are re-leased, current lease terms have changed or a specific lessee's credit standing changes. We con-sider market conditions, such as global demand for commercial aircraft. Estimates of future rentals and residual values are based on historical experience and information received routinely from independent appraisers. Estimated cash flows from future leases are reduced for expected downtime between leases and for estimated technical costs required to prepare aircraft to be 60 GE 2010 ANNUAL REPORT
MANAGEMENT'S DISCUSSION AND ANALYSIS redeployed. Fair value used to measure impairment is based on management's best estimate. In determining its best estimate, management evaluates average current market values (obtained from third parties) of similar type and age aircraft, which are adjusted for the attributes of the specific aircraft under lease.
We recognized impairment losses on our operating lease port-folio of commercial aircraft of $0.4 billion and $0.1 billion in 2010 and 2009, respectively. Provisions for losses on financing receiv-ables related to commercial aircraft were insignificant and
$0.1 billion in 2010 and 2009, respectively.
Further information on impairment losses and our exposure to the commercial aviation industry is provided in the Operations-Overview section and in Notes 7 and 25.
Real Estate. We review the estimated value of our commercial real estate investments semi-annually. The cash flow estimates used for both estimating value and the recoverability analysis are inherently judgmental, and reflect current and projected lease profiles, available industry information about expected trends in rental, occupancy and capitalization rates and expected business plans, which include our estimated holding period for the asset. Our portfolio is diversified, both geographi-cally and by asset type. However, the global real estate market is subject to periodic cycles that can cause significant fluctuations in market values. As of our most recent estimate performed in 2010, the carrying value of our Real Estate investments exceeded their estimated value by about $5.1 billion. The estimated value of the portfolio continues to reflect deterioration in real estate values and market fundamentals, including reduced market occupancy rates and market rents as well as the effects of limited real estate market liquidity. Given the current and expected challenging market conditions, there continues to be risk and uncertainty surrounding commercial real estate values.
Declines in the estimated value of real estate below carrying amount result in impairment losses when the aggregate undis-counted cash flow estimates used in the estimated value measurement are below the carrying amount. As such, esti-mated losses in the portfolio will not necessarily result in recognized impairment losses. When we recognize an impair-ment, the impairment is measured using the estimated fair value of the underlying asset, which is based upon cash flow estimates that reflect current and projected lease profiles and available industry information about capitalization rates and expected trends in rents and occupancy and is corroborated by external appraisals. During 2010, Real Estate recognized pre-tax iml~airments of $2.3 billion in its real estate held for investment, as compared to $0.8 billion in 2009. Continued deterioration in economic conditions or prolonged market illi-quidity may result in further impairments being recognized.
Furthermore, significant judgment and uncertainty related to forecasted valuation trends, especially in illiquid markets, results in inherent imprecision in real estate value estimates. Further information is provided in the Global Risk Management and the All Other Assets sections and in Note 9.
Goodwill and Other Identified Intangible Assets. We test goodwill for impairment annually and more frequently if circum-stances warrant. We determine fair values for each of the reporting units using an income approach. When available and appropriate, we use comparative market multiples to corrobo-rate discounted cash flow results. For purposes of the income approach, fair value is determined based on the present value of estimated future cash flows, discounted at an appropriate risk-adjusted rate. We use our internal forecasts to estimate future cash flows and include an estimate of long-term future growth rates based on our most recent views of the long-term outlook for each business. Actual results may differ from those assumed in our forecasts. We derive our discount rates using a capital asset pricing model and analyzing published rates for industries relevant to our reporting units to estimate the cost of equity financing. We use discount rates that are commensurate with the risks and uncertainty inherent in the respective businesses and in our internally developed forecasts. Discount rates used in our reporting unit valuations ranged from 9% to 14.5%.
Valuations using the market approach reflect prices and other relevant observable information generated by market transac-tions involving comparable businesses.
Compared to the market approach, the income approach more closely aligns each reporting unit valuation to our business profile, including geographic markets served and product offerings.
Required rates of return, along with uncertainty inherent in the forecasts of future calsh flows, are reflected in the selection of the discount rate. Equally important, under this approach, reasonably likely scenarios and associated sensitivities can be developed for alternative future states that may not be reflected in an observ-able market price. A market approach allows for comparison to actual market transactions and multiples. It can be somewhat more limited in its application because the population of potential comparables is often limited to publicly-traded companies where the characteristics of the comparative business and ours can be significantly different, market data is usually not available for divisions within larger conglomerates or non-public subsidiaries that could otherwise qualify as comparable, and the specific circumstances surrounding a market transaction le.g., synergies between the parties, terms and conditions of the transaction, etc.)
may be different or irrelevant with respect to our business. It can also be difficult, under certain market conditions, to identify orderly transactions between market participants in similar businesses. We assess the valuation methodology based upon the relevance and availability of the data at the time we per-form the valuation and weight the methodologies appropriately.
We performed our annual impairment test of goodwill for all of our reporting units in the third quarter using data as of July 1, 2010. The impairment test consists of two steps: in step one, the carrying value of the reporting unit is compared with its fair value; in step two, which is applied when the carrying value is more than its fair value, the amount of goodwill impairment, if any, is derived by deducting the fair value of the reporting unit's assets and liabilities from the fair value of its equity, and comparing that amount with the carrying amount of goodwill. In performing the GE 2010 ANNUAL REPORT 61
MANAGEMENT'S DISCUSSION AND ANALYSIS valuations, we used cash flows that reflected management's forecasts and discount rates that included risk adjustments con-sistent with the current market conditions. Based on the results of our step one testing, the fair values of each of the GE Industrial reporting units and the CLL, Consumer, Energy Financial Services and GECAS reporting units exceeded their carrying values; there-fore, the second step of the impairment test was not required to be performed and no goodwill impairment was recognized.
Our Real Estate reporting unit had a goodwill balance of
$1.1 billion at December 31, 2010. As of July 1, 2010, the carrying amount exceeded the estimated fair value of our Real Estate reporting unit by approximately $3.2 billion. The estimated fair value of the Real Estate reporting unit is based on a number of assumptions about future business performance and investment, including loss estimates for the existing finance receivable and investment portfolio, new debt origination volume and margins, and anticipated stabilization of the real estate market allowing for sales of real estate investments at normalized margins. Our assumed discount rate was 12% and was derived by applying a capital asset pricing model and corroborated using equity analyst research reports and implied cost of equity based on forecasted price to earnings per share multiples for similar companies. Given the volatility and uncertainty in the current commercial real estate environment, there is uncertainty about a number of assump-tions upon which the estimated fair value is based. Different loss estimates for the existing portfolio, changes in the new debt origination volume and margin assumptions, changes in the expected pace of the commercial real estate market recovery, or changes in the equity return expectation of market participants may result in changes in the estimated fair value of the Real Estate reporting unit.
Based on the results of the step one testing, we performed the second step of the impairment test described above. Based on the results of the second step analysis for the Real Estate report-ing unit, the estimated implied fair value of goodwill exceeded the carrying value of goodwill by approximately $3.5 billion.
Accordingly, no goodwill impairment was required. In the sec-ond step, unrealized losses in an entity's assets have the effect of increasing the estimated implied fair value of goodwill. The results of the second step analysis were attributable to several factors.
The primary driver was the excess of the carrying value over the estimated fair value of our Real Estate equity investments, which approximated $6.3 billion at that time. Further information about the Real Estate investment portfolio is provided in the Financial Resources and Liquidity-Statement of Financial Position-All Other Assets section. Other drivers for the favorable outcome include the unrealized losses in the Real Estate finance receivable portfolio and the fair value premium on the Real Estate reporting unit allocated debt. The results of the second step analysis are highly sensitive to these measurements, as well as the key assumptions used in determining the estimated fair value of the Real Estate reporting unit.
Estimating the fair value of reporting units requires the use of estimates and significant judgments that are based on a number of factors including actual operating results. If current conditions persist longer or deteriorate further than expected, it is reason-ably possible that the judgments and estimates described above could change in future periods.
We review identified intangible assets with defined useful lives and subject to amortization for impairment whenever events or changes in circumstances indicate that the related carrying amounts may not be recoverable. Determining whether an impairment loss occurred requires comparing the carrying amount to the sum of undiscounted cash flows expected to be generated by the asset. We test intangible assets with indefinite lives annually for impairment using a fair value method such as discounted cash flows. For our insurance activities remaining in continuing operations, we periodically test for impairment our deferred acquisition costs and present value of future profits.
Further information is provided in the Financial Resources and Liquidity-Goodwill and Other Intangible Assets section and in Notes l and 8.
PENSION ASSUMPTIONS are significant inputs to the actuarial models that measure pension benefit obligations and related effects on operations. Two assumptions-discount rate and expected return on assets-are important elements of plan expense and asset/liability measurement. We evaluate these critical assumptions at least annually on a plan and country-specific basis. We periodically evaluate other assumptions involving demographic factors, such as retirement age, mortality and turnover, and update them to reflect our experience and expectations for the future. Actual results in any given year will often differ from actuarial assumptions because of economic and other factors.
Accumulated and projected benefit obligations are measured as the present value of future cash payments. We discount those cash payments using the weighted average of market-observed yields for high-quality fixed income securities with maturities that correspond to the payment of benefits. Lower discount rates increase present values and subsequent-year pension expense; higher discount rates decrease present values and subsequent-year pension expense.
Our discount rates for principal pension plans at December 31, 2010,2009 and 2008 were 5.28%, 5.78% and 6.11%, respectively, reflecting market interest rates.
To determine the expected long-term rate of return on pen-sion plan assets, we consider current and expected asset allocations, as well as historical and expected returns on various categories of plan assets. In developing future return expecta-tions for our principal benefit plans' assets, we evaluate general market trends as well as key elements of asset class returns such as expected earnings growth, yields and spreads. Assets in our principal pension plans earned 13.5% in 2010, and had average annual earnings of 4.1%, 7.9% and 9.5% per year in the 10-,
15-and 25-year periods ended December 31, 2010, respectively.
These average historical returns were significantly affected by investment losses in 2008. Based on our analysis of future expec-tations of asset performance, past return results, and our current and expected asset allocations, we have assumed an 8.0%
62 GE 2010 ANNUAL REPORT
MANAGEMENT'S DISCUSSION AND ANALYSIS long-term expected return on those assets for cost recognition in 2011. This is a reduction from the 8.5% we had assumed in 2010, 2009 and 2008.
Changes in key assumptions for our principal pension plans would have the following effects:
" Discount rate-A 25 basis point increase in discount rate would decrease pension cost in the following year by $0.2 billion and would decrease the pension benefit obligation at year-end by about $1.5 billion.
" Expected return on assets-A 50 basis point decrease in the expected return on assets would increase pension cost in the following year by $0.2 billion.
Further information on our pension plans is provided in the Operations-Overview section and in Note 12.
INCOME TAXES. Our annual tax rate is based on our income, statutory tax rates and tax planning opportunities available to us in the various jurisdictions in which we operate. Tax laws are complex and subject to different interpretations by the taxpayer and respective governmental taxing authorities. Significant judgment is required in determining our tax expense and in evaluating our tax positions, including evaluating uncertainties.
We review our tax positions quarterly and adjust the balances as new information becomes available. Our income tax rate is significantly affected by the tax rate on our global operations.
In addition to local country tax laws and regulations, this rate depends on the extent earnings are indefinitely reinvested outside the United States. Indefinite reinvestment is determined by management's judgment about and intentions concerning the future operations of the company. At December 31, 2010,
$94 billion of earnings have been indefinitely reinvested outside the United States. Most of these earnings have been reinvested in active non-U.S. business operations, and we do not intend to repatriate these earnings to fund U.S. operations. Because of the availability of U.S. foreign tax credits, it is not practicable to determine the U.S. federal income tax liability that would be payable if such earnings were not reinvested indefinitely.
Deferred income tax assets represent amounts available to reduce income taxes payable on taxable income in future years.
Such assets arise because of temporary differences between the financial reporting and tax bases of assets and liabilities, as well as from net operating loss and tax credit carryforwards. We evaluate the recoverability of these future tax deductions and credits by assessing the adequacy of future expected taxable income from all sources, including reversal of taxable temporary differences, forecasted operating earnings and available tax planning strategies. These sources of income rely heavily on estimates. We use our historical experience and our short-and long-range business forecasts to provide insight. Further, our global and diversified business portfolio gives us the opportu-nity to employ various prudent and feasible tax planning strategies to facilitate the recoverability of future deductions.
Amounts recorded for deferred tax assets related to non-U.S.
net operating losses, net of valuation allowances, were
$4.4 billion and $3.6 billion at December 31, 2010 and 2009, respectively, including $1.0 billion and $1.3 billion at December 31, 2010 and 2009, respectively, of deferred tax assets, net of valuation allowances, associated with losses reported in discontinued operations, primarily related to our loss on the sale of GE Money Japan. Such year-end 2010 amounts are expected to be fully recoverable within the applicable statu-tory expiration periods. To the extent we do not consider it more likely than not that a deferred tax asset will be recovered, a valuation allowance is established.
Further information on income taxes is provided in the Operations-Overview section and in Note 14.
DERIVATIVES AND HEDGING. We use derivatives to manage a variety of risks, including risks related to interest rates, foreign exchange and commodity prices. Accounting for derivatives as hedges requires that, at inception and over the term of the arrangement, the hedged item and related derivative meet the requirements for hedge accounting. The rules and interpre-tations related to derivatives accounting are complex. Failure to apply this complex guidance correctly will result in all changes in the fair value of the derivative being reported in earnings, without regard to the offsetting changes in the fair value of the hedged item.
In evaluating whether a particular relationship qualifies for hedge accounting, we test effectiveness at inception and each reporting period thereafter by determining whether changes in the fair value of the derivative offset, within a specified range, changes in the fair value of the hedged item. If fair value changes fail this test, we discontinue applying hedge accounting to that relationship prospectively. Fair values of both the derivative instrument and the hedged item are calculated using internal valuation models incorporating market-based assumptions, subject to third-party confirmation, as applicable.
At December 31, 2010, derivative assets and liabilities were
$7.5 billion and $2.8 billion, respectively. Further information about our use of derivatives is provided in Notes 1, 9, 21 and 22.
FAIR VALUE MEASUREMENTS. Assets and liabilities measured at fair value every reporting period include investments in debt and equity securities and derivatives. Assets that are not mea-sured at fair value every reporting period but that are subject to fair value measurements in certain circumstances include loans and long-lived assets that have been reduced to fair value when they are held for sale, impaired loans that have been reduced based on the fair value of the underlying collateral, cost and equity method investments and long-lived assets that are writ-ten down to fair value when they are impaired and the remeasurement of retained investments in formerly consoli-dated subsidiaries upon a change in control that results in deconsolidation of a subsidiary, if we sell a controlling interest and retain a noncontrolling stake in the entity. Assets that are written down to fair value when impaired and retained invest-ments are not subsequently adjusted to fair value unless further impairment occurs.
GE 2010 ANNUAL REPORT 63
MANAGEMENT'S DISCUSSION AND ANALYSIS A fair value measurement is determined as the price we would receive to sell an asset or pay to transfer a liability in an orderly transaction between market participants at the measurement date. In the absence of active markets for the identical assets or liabilities, such measurements involve developing assumptions based on market observable data and, in the absence of such data, internal information that is consistent with what market participants would use in a hypothetical transaction that occurs at the measurement date. The determination of fair value often involves significantjudgments about assumptions such as deter-mining an appropriate discount rate that factors in both risk and liquidity premiums, identifying the similarities and differences in market transactions, weighting those differences accordingly and then making the appropriate adjustments to those market trans-actions to reflect the risks specific to our asset being valued.
Further information on fair value measurements is provided in Notes 1, 21 and 22.
OTHER LOSS CONTINGENCIES are uncertain and unresolved matters that arise in the ordinary course of business and result from events or actions by others that have the potential to result in a future loss. Such contingencies include, but are not limited to environmental obligations, litigation, regulatory pro-ceedings, product quality and losses resulting from other events and developments.
When a loss is considered probable and reasonably estimable, we record a liability in the amount of our best estimate for the ultimate loss. When there appears to be a range of possible costs with equal likelihood, liabilities are based on the low end of such range. However, the likelihood of a loss with respect to a particular contingency is often difficult to predict and determining a mean-ingful estimate of the loss or a range of loss may not be practicable based on the information available and the potential effect of future events and decisions by third parties that will determine the ultimate resolution of the contingency. Moreover, it is not uncommon for such matters to be resolved over many years, during which time relevant developments and new information must be continuously evaluated to determine both the likelihood of potential loss and whether it is possible to reasonably estimate a range of possible loss. When a loss is probable but a reasonable estimate cannot be made, disclosure is provided.
Disclosure also is provided when it is reasonably possible that a loss will be incurred or when it is reasonably possible that the amount of a loss will exceed the recorded provision. We regularly review all contingencies to determine whether the likelihood of loss has changed and to assess whether a reasonable estimate of the loss or range of loss can be made. As discussed above, devel-opment of a meaningful estimate of loss or a range of potential loss is complex when the outcome is directly dependent on negotia-tions with or decisions by third parties, such as regulatory agencies, the court system and other interested parties. Such factors bear directly on whether it is possible to reasonably esti-mate a range of potential loss and boundaries of high and low estimates.
Further information is provided in Notes 13 and 25.
Other Information New Accounting Standards In September 2009, the FASB issued amendments to existing standards for revenue arrangements with multiple components.
ASU 2009-13 requires the allocation of consideration to separate components based on the relative selling price of each compo-nent in a revenue arrangement. ASU 2009-14 requires certain software-enabled products to be accounted for under the general accounting standards for multiple component arrange-ments as opposed to accounting standards specifically applicable to software arrangements. The amendments are effective prospectively for revenue arrangements entered into or materially modified after January 1, 2011. The impact of adopting these amendments is expected to be insignificant to our financial statements.
Research and Development GE-funded research and development expenditures were
$3.9 billion, $3.3 billion and $3.1 billion in 2010, 2009 and 2008, respectively. In addition, 'research and development funding from customers, principally the U.S. government, totaled
$1.0 billion, $1.1 billion and $1.3 billion in 2010, 2009 and 2008, respectively. Technology Infrastructure's Aviation business accounts for the largest share of GE's research and develop-ment expenditures with funding from both GE and customer funds. Energy Infrastructure's Energy business and Technology Infrastructure's Healthcare business also made significant expenditures funded primarily by GE.
Expenditures reported above reflect the definition of research and development required by U.S. generally accepted accounting principles. For operating and management purposes, we also measure amounts spent on product and services technology.
These technology expenditures were $5.9 billion in 2010 and included our reported research and development expenditures as well as the amount spent to improve our existing products and services, and to improve productivity of our plants, equipment and processes.
Orders Backlog GE's total backlog of firm unfilled orders at the end of 2010 was
$66.7 billion, a decrease of 1% from year-end 2009, reflecting decreased demand at Energy Infrastructure, partially offset by increased demand at Technology Infrastructure. Of this backlog,
$46.0 billion related to products, of which 59% was scheduled for delivery in 2011. Product services orders; included in this reported backlog for only the succeeding 12 months, were
$20.6 billion at the end of 2010. Product services orders beyond the succeeding 12 months were approximately $108.7 billion, which combined with the firm unfilled orders described above resulted in a total backlog of approximately $175.4 billion at December 31, 2010. Orders constituting backlog may be can-celled or deferred by customers, subject in certain cases to penalties. See the Segment Operations section for further information.
64 GE 2010 ANNUAL REPORT
MANAGEMENT'S DISCUSSION AND ANALYSIS Selected Financial Data The following table provides key information for Consolidated, GE and GECS.
(Dollars in millions; per-share amounts in dollars)
GENERAL ELECTRIC COMPANY AND CONSOLIDATED AFFILIATES Revenues Earnings from continuing operations attributable to the Company Earnings (loss) from discontinued operations, net of taxes, attributable to the Company Net earnings attributable to the Company Dividends declaredla)
Return on average GE shareowners' equitylb)
Per common share Earnings from continuing operations-diluted Earnings (loss) from discontinued operations-diluted Net earnings-diluted Earnings from continuing operations-basic Earnings (loss) from discontinued operations-basic Net earnings-basic Dividends declared Stock price range Year-end closing stock price Cash and equivalents Total assets of continuing operations Total assets Long-term borrowings Common shares outstanding-average (in thousands)
Common shareowner accounts-average Employees at year end United States Other countries 2010 2009 2008 2007 2006
$150,211 12,623 (979) 11,644 5,212 11.4%
1.15 (0.09) 1.06 1.15 (0.09) 1.06 0.46 19.70-13.75 18.29 78,958 745,938 751,216 293,323 10,661,078 588,000
$155,278 10,943 82 11,025 6,785 10.5%
.1.00 0.01 1.01 1.00 0.01 1.01 0.61 17.52-5.87 15.13 70,488 766,773 781,901 336,172 10,613,717 605,000
$181,581 18,027 (617) 17,410 12,649 16.2%
1.78 (0.06) 1.72 1.78 (0.06) 1.72 1.24 38.52-12.58 16.20 48,112 788,906 797,841 320,503 10,079,923 604,000
$171,556
$150,845 22,394 19,255 (186) 22,208 11,713 20.8%
2.19 (0.02) 2.17 2.20 (0.02) 2.18 1.15 42.15-33.90 37.07 15,639 779,112 795,741 314,978 10,182,083 608,000 1,487 20,742 10,675 19.4%
1.85 0.14 2.00 1.86 0.14 2.00 1.03 38.49-32.06 37.21 14,030 669,371 697,311 255,067 10,359,320 624,000 133,000 134,000 152,000 155,000 155,000 154,000 170,000 171,000 172,000 164,000 Total employees 287,000 304,000 323,000 327,000 319,000 GE DATA Short-term borrowings 456 504
$ 2,375
$ 4,106
$ 2,076 Long-term borrowings 9,656 11,681 9,827 11,656 9,043 Noncontrolling interests 4,098 5,797 6,678 6,503 5,544 GE shareowners' equity 118,936 117,291 104,665 115,559 111,509 Total capital invested
$133,146
$135,273
$123,545
$137,824
$128,172 Return on average total capital invested1 b1 Borrowings as a percentage of total capital invested(b) 11.2%
7.6%
9.8%
9.0%
15.1%
.9.9%
19.2%
11.4%
18.2%
8.7%
Working capitallb)
$ (1,618)
$ (1,596) 3,904 6,433 7,527 GECS DATA Revenues
$ 50,499
$ 52,658
$ 70,353
$ 71,004
$ 60,628 Earnings from continuing operations attributable to GECS 3,130 1,315 7,712 12,354 10,131 Earnings (loss) from discontinued operations, net of taxes, attributable to GECS (975) 100 (657)
(2,053) 527 Net earnings attributable to GECS 2,155 1,415 7,055 10,301 10,658 GECS shareowner's equity 68,984 70,833 53,279 57,676 54,097 Total borrowings and bank deposits 470,562 493,585 514,430 500,696 426,017 Ratio of debt to equity at GECC 6.39:1(cl 6.66:1(c) 8.79:1 8.14:1 7.50:1 Total assets
$608,678
$650,324
$660,974
$646,543
$565,296 Transactions between GE and GECS have been eliminated from the consolidated information.
(a) Included $300 million of preferred stock dividends in both 2010 and 2009 and $75 million in 2008.
lb) Indicates terms are defined in the Glossary.
(c) Ratios of 4.94:1 and 5.17:1 for 2010 and 2009, respectively, net of cash and equivalents and with classification of hybrid debt as equity.
GE 2010 ANNUAL REPORT 65
AUDITED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS Statement of Earnings General Electric Company and consolidated affiliates For the years ended December 31 (In millions; per-share amounts in dollars) 2010 2009 2008 REVENUES Sales of goods
$ 60,812
$ 65,067
$ 69,100 Sales of services 39,625 38,710 43,669 Other income (Note 17) 1,151 1,006 1,586 GECS earnings from continuing operations GECS revenues from services (Note 18) 48,623 50,495 67,226 Total revenues 150,211 155,278 181,581 COSTS AND EXPENSES (Note 19)
Cost of goods sold 46,005 50,580 54,602 Cost of services sold 25,708 25,341 29,170 Interest and other financial charges 15,983 18,309 25,758 Investment contracts, insurance losses and insurance annuity benefits 3,012 3,017 3,213 Provision for losses on financing receivables (Notes 6 and 23) 7,191 10,627 7,233 Other costs and expenses 38,104 37,409 41,835 Total costs and expenses 136,003 145,283 161,811 EARNINGS (LOSS) FROM CONTINUING OPERATIONS BEFORE INCOME TAXES 14;208 9,995 19,770 Benefit (provision) for income taxes (Note 14)
(1,050) 1,148 (1,102)
EARNINGS FROM CONTINUING OPERATIONS 13,158 11,143 18,668 Earnings (loss) from discontinued operations, net of taxes (Note 2)
(979) 82 (617)
NET EARNINGS 12,179 11,225.
18,051 Less net earnings attributable to noncontrolling interests 535 200 641 NET EARNINGS ATTRIBUTABLE TO THE COMPANY 11,644 11,025 17,410 Preferred stock dividends declared (300)
(300)
(75)
NET EARNINGS ATTRIBUTABLE TO GE COMMON SHAREOWNERS
$ 11,344
$ 10,725
$ 17,335 AMOUNTS ATTRIBUTABLE TO THE COMPANY Earnings from cohtinuing operations
$ 12,623
$ 10,943
$ 18,027 Earnings (loss) from discontinued operations, net of taxes (979) 82 (617)
NET EARNINGS ATTRIBUTABLE TO THE COMPANY
$ 11,644
$ 11,025
$ 17,410 PER-SHARE AMOUNTS (Note 20)
Earnings from continuing operations Diluted earnings per share 1.15 1.00 1.78 Basic earnings per share 1.15 1.00 1.78 Net earnings Diluted earnings per share 1.06 1.01 1.72 Basic earnings per share 1.06 1.01 1.72 DIVIDENDS DECLARED PER SHARE 0.46 0.61 1.24 See Note 3 for other-than-temporary impairment amounts.
Consolidated Statement of Changes in Shareowners' Equity (In millions) 2010 2009 2008 CHANGES IN SHAREOWNERS' EQUITY (Note 15)
GE shareowners' equity balance at January 1
$117,291
$104,665
$115,559 Dividends and other transactions with shareowners (5,701)
(5,049) 1,873 Other comprehensive income (loss)
Investment securities-net 16 2,659 (3,218)
Currency translation adjustments-net (3,874) 4,135 (11,007)
Cash flow hedges-net 454 1,598 (2,664)
Benefit plans-net 1,079 (1,804)
(13,288)
Total other comprehensive income (loss)
(2,325) 6,588 (30,177)
Increases from net earnings attributable to the Company 11,644 11,025 17,410 Comprehensive income (loss) 9,319 17,613 (12,767)
Cumulative effect of changes in accounting principlesla)
(1,973) 62 Balance at December 31 118,936 117,291 104,665 Noncontrolling interests(b) 5,262 7,845 8,947 Total equity balance at December 31
$124,198
$125,136
$113,612 On January 1, 2009, we adopted an amendment to Accounting Standards Codification (ASC) 810, Consolidotion, that requires certain changes to the presentation of our financial statements. This amendment requires us to classify noncontrolling interests (previously referred to as "minority interest") as part of shareowners' equity.
(a) On January 1, 2010. we adopted amendments to ASC 860, Tronsfers ond Servicing and ASC 810, Consolidotion, and recorded a cumulative effect adjustment. See Notes 15 and
- 24. We adopted amendments to ASC 320, Investments-Debt and Equity Securities, and recorded a cumulative effect adjustment to increase retained earnings as of April 1, 2009. See Notes 3 and 15.
(b) See Note 15 for an explanation of the changes in noncontrolling interests for 2010 and 2009.
See accompanying notes.
66 GE 2010 ANNUAL REPORT
STATEMENT OF EARNINGS GEla)
GECS 2010 2009 2008 2010 2009 2008
$ 60,345
$ 64,211
$ 67,637 533 970
$ 1,773 39,875 39,246 44,377 1,285 1,179 1,965 3,130 1,315 7,712 49,966 51,688 68,580 104,635 105,951 121,691 50,499 52,658 70,353 45,570 49,886 53,395 501 808 1,517 25,958 25,878 29,878 1,600 1,478 2,153 14,956 17,482 24,665 3,197 3,193 3,421 7,191 10,627 7,233 16,341 14,842 14,401 22,482 23,105 27,899 89,469 92,084 99,827 48,327 55,215 64,735 15,166 13,867 21,864 2,172 (2,557) 5,618 (2,024)
(2,739)
(3,427) 974 3,887 2,325 13,142 11,128 18,437 3,146 1,330 7,943 (979) 82 (617)
(975) 100 (657) 12,163 11,210 17,820 2,171 1,430 7,286 519 185 410 16 15 231 11,644 11,025 17,410 2,155 1,415 7,055 (300)
(300)
(75)
$ 11,344
$ 10,725
$ 17,335
$ 2,155
$ 1,415
$ 7,055
$ 12,623
$ 10,943
$ 18,027
$ 3,130
$ 1,315
$ 7,712 (979) 82 (617)
(975) 100 (657)
$ 11,644
$ 11,025
$ 17,410
$ 2,155
$ 1,415
$ 7,055 (a) Represents the adding together of all affiliated companies except General Electric Capital Services, Inc. (GECS or financial services), which is presented on a one-line basis. See Note 1.
In the consolidating data on this page, "GE" means the basis of consolidation as described in Note 1 to the consolidated financial statements; "GECS" means General Electric Capital Services, Inc. and all of its affiliates and associated companies. Separate information is shown for "GE" and "GECS." Transactions between GE and GECS have been eliminated from the "General Electric Company and consolidated affiliates" columns on the prior page.
GE 2010 ANNUAL REPORT 67
AUDITED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS Statement of Financial Position At December 31 (In millions, except share amounts)
ASSETS Cash and equivalents Investment securities (Note 3)
Current receivables (Note 4)
Inventories (Note 5)
Financing receivables-net (Notes 6 and 23)
Other GECS receivables Property, plant and equipment-net (Note 7)
Investment in GECS Goodwill (Note 8)
Other intangible assets-net (Note 8)
All other assets (Note 9)
Assets of businesses held for sale (Note 2)
Assets of discontinued operations (Note 2)
General Electric Company and consolidated affiliates 2010 2009
$ 78,958 43,938 18,621 11,526 310,055 8,951 66,214 64,473 9,973 96,342 36,887 5,278
$751,216
$ 70,488 51,343 16,458 11,987 319,247 14,056 68,970 65,076 11,751 103,286 34,111 15,128
$781,901 Total assets(a)
LIABILITIES AND EQUITY Short-term borrowings (Note 10)
$117,959
$129,869 Accounts payable, principally trade accounts 14,657 19,527 Progress collections and price adjustments accrued 11,142 12,192 Dividends payable 1,563 1,141 Other GE current liabilities 11,396 13,386 Non-recourse borrowings of consolidated securitization entities (Note 10) 30,060 3,883 Bank deposits (Note 101 37,298 33,519 Long-term borrowings (Note 101 293,323 336,172 Investment contracts, insurance liabilities and insurance annuity benefits (Note 11) 29,582 31,641 All other liabilities (Note 13) 58,844 58,776 Deferred income taxes (Note 14) 2,840 2,081 Liabilities of businesses held for sale (Note 2) 16,047 6,092 Liabilities of discontinued operations (Note 2) 2,307 8,486 Total liabilities(a) 627,018 656,765 Preferred stock (30,000 shares outstanding at both year-end 2010 and 2009)
Common stock (10,615,376,000 and 10,663,075,000 shares outstanding at year-end 2010 and 2009, respectively) 702 702 Accumulated other comprehensive income-net(b)
Investment securities (636)
(435)
Currency translation adjustments (86) 3,836 Cash flow hedges (1,280)
(1,734)
Benefit plans (15,853)
(16,932)
Other capital 36,890 37,729 Retained earnings 131,137 126,363 Less common stock held in treasury (31,938)
(32,238)
Total GE shareowners' equity 118,936 117,291 Noncontrolling interests(c) 5,262 7,845 Total equity (Notes 15 and 16) 124,198 125,136 Total liabilities and equity
$751,216
$781,901 (a) Our consolidated assets at December 31. 2010 include total assets of $49,295 million of certain variable interest entities IVIEs) that can only be used to settle the liabilities of those VIEs. These assets include net financing receivables of $38,612 million and investment securities of $6,670 million. Our consolidated liabilities at December 31, 2010 include liabilities of certain VlEs for which the VIE creditors do not have recourse to GE. These liabilities include non-recourse borrowings of consolidated securitization entities (CSEs) of $29,444 million. See Note 24.
(b) The sum of accumulated other comprehensive income-net was $(17,855) million and $(15,265) million at December 31, 2010 and 2009. respectively.
(c) Included accumulated other comprehensive income-net attributable to noncontrolling interests of $(153) million and $(188) million at December 31, 2010 and 2009, respectively.
See accompanying notes.
68 GE 2010 ANNUAL REPORT
STATEMENT OF FINANCIAL POSITION GE(a)
GECS 2010 2009 2010 2009
$ 19,241 8,654
$ 60,272
$ 62,584 19 30 43,921 51,315 10,383 9,818 11,460 11,916 66 71 319,277 326,941 14,299 18,631 12,444 12,495 53,770 56,475 68,984 70,833 36,880 36,613 27,593 28,463 8,088 8,450 1,885 3,301 17,454 17,097 79,240 87,340 33,760 33,986 3,127 125 50 50 5,228 15,078
$218,763
$209,942
$608,678
$650,324 456 504
$118,797
$130,754 11,620 10,373 7,036 13,099 11,841 12,957 1,563 1,141
.11,396 13,386 30,060 3,883 37,298 33,519 9,656 11,681 284,407 325,429 29,993 32,009 37,815 35,232 21,127 23,671 (4,237)
(4,620) 7,077 6,701 15,455 6,037 592 55 164 163 2,143 8,323 95,729 86,854 538,530 577,443 702 702 1
1 (636)
(435)
(639)
(436)
(86) 3,836 (1,411) 1,372 (1,280)
(1,734)
(1,281)
(1,769)
(15,853)
(16,932)
(380)
(434) 36,890 37,729 27,626 27,591 131,137 126,363 45,068 44,508 (31,938)
(32,238) 118,936 117,291 68,984 70,833 4,098 5,797 1,164 2,048 123,034 123,088 70,148 72,881
$218,763
$209,942
$608,678
$650,324 (a) Represents the adding together of all affiliated companies except General Electric Capital Services, Inc. (GECS or financial services),
which is presented on a one-line basis. See Note 1.
In the consolidating data on this page, "GE" means the basis of consolidation as described in Note I to the consolidated financial statements; "GECS" means General Electric Capital Services, Inc. and all of its affiliates and associated companies. Separate information is shown for "GE" and "GECS." Transactions between GE and GECS have been eliminated from the "General Electric Company and consolidated affiliates" columns on the prior page.
GE 2010 ANNUAL REPORT 69
AUDITED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS Statement of Cash Flows General Electric Company and consolidated offiliotes 2010 2009 For the years ended December 31 (In millions)
CASH FLOWS-OPERATING ACTIVITIES Net earnings Less net earnings attributable to noncontrolling interests Net earnings attributable to the Company (Earnings) loss from discontinued operations Adjustments to reconcile net earnings attributable to the Company to cash provided from operating activities Depreciation and amortization of property, plant and equipment Earnings from continuing operations retained by GECS Deferred income taxes Decrease (increase) in GE current receivables Decrease (increase) in inventories Increase (decrease) in accounts payable Increase (decrease) in GE progress collections Provision for losses on GECS financing receivables All other operating activities Cash from (used for) operating activities-continuing operations Cash from (used for) operating activities-discontinued operations CASH FROM (USED FOR) OPERATING ACTIVITIES CASH FLOWS-INVESTING ACTIVITIES Additions to property, plant and equipment Dispositions of property, plant and equipment Net decrease (increase) in GECS financing receivables Proceeds from sales of discontinued operations Proceeds from principal business dispositions Payments for principal businesses purchased Capital contribution from GE to GECS All other investing activities 2008
$ 12,179 535 11,644 979 10,013 1,046 (126) 342 805 (1,177) 7,191 5,075 35,792 331 36,123
$11,225 200 11,025 (82) 10,619 (2,793) 3,273 1,101 (439)
(500) 10,627 (8,433) 24,398 19 24,417
$18,051 641 17,410 617 11,481 (1,282)
(24)
(719)
(1,063) 2,827 7,233 11,214 47,694 959 48,653 (9,800) 7,208 25,010 2,510 3,062 (1,212) 7,703 (8,634) 6,478 42,917 9,978 (7,842)
(2,070)
(16,010) 10,954 (17,143) 5,423 4,986 (28,110) 6,168 Cash from (used for) investing activities-continuing operations 34,481 40,827 (33,732)
Cash from (used for) investing activities-discontinued operations (2,045) 1,551 (1,036)
CASH FROM (USED FOR) INVESTING ACTIVITIES 32,436 42,378 (34,768)
CASH FLOWS-FINANCING ACTIVITIES Net increase (decrease) in borrowings (maturities of 90 days or less)
(1,228)
(26,115)
(48,511)
Net increase (decrease) in bank deposits 4,603 (3,784) 20,623 Newly issued debt (maturities longer than 90 days) 47,642 82,838 116,624 Repayments and other reductions (maturities longer than 90 days)
(100,154)
(85,016)
(68,993)
Proceeds from issuance of preferred stock and warrants 2,965 Proceeds from issuance of common stock 12,006 Net dispositions (purchases) of GE shares for treasury (1,263) 623 (1,249)
Dividends paid to shareowners (4,790)
(8,986)
(12,408)
Capital contribution from GE to GECS Purchases of subsidiary shares from noncontrolling interests (2,633)
All other financing activities (3,647)
(3,204)
(1,862)
Cash from (used for) financing activities-continuing operations (61,470)
(43,644) 19,195 Cash from (used for) financing activities-discontinued operations (116) 131 159)
CASH FROM (USED FOR) FINANCING ACTIVITIES (61,586)
(43,513) 19,136 Effect of exchange rate changes on cash and equivalents (333) 795 (685)
Increase (decrease) in cash and equivalents 6,640 24,077 32,336 Cash and equivalents at beginning of year 72,444 48,367 16,031 Cash and equivalents at end of year 79,084 72,444 48,367 Less cash and equivalents of discontinued operations at end of year 126 1,956 255 Cash and equivalents of continuing operations at end of year
$ 78,958
$70,488
$48,112 SUPPLEMENTAL DISCLOSURE OF CASH FLOWS INFORMATION Cash paid during the year for interest
$ (17,132)
$(19,601)
$(25,853)
Cash recovered (paid) during the year for income taxes (2,671)
(2,535)
(3,237)
See accompanying notes.
70 GE 2010 ANNUAL REPORT
STATEMENT OF CASH FLOWS GE(al GECS 2010 2009 2008 2010 2009 2008
$12,163
$ 11,210
$ 17,820
$ 2,171
$ 1,430 7,286 519 185 410 16 15 231 11,644 11,025 17,410 2,155 1,415 7,055 979 (82) 617 975 (100) 657 2,260 2,311 2,162 7,753 8,308 9,319 (3,130)
(1,315)
(5,361)
(377)
(460)
(417) 1,423 (2,333)
(865)
(963) 3,056 (168) 409 1,188 (524) 5 (6)
(14) 1,052 (918) 233 (194)
(338)
(1,030)
(1,158)
(257) 2,896 7,191 10,627 7,233 4,030 1,857 2,290 1,862 (10,164) 8,650 14,746 16,405 19,138 21,170 7,409 31,005 2
(5) 331 17 964 14,746 16,407 19,133 21,501 7,426 31,969 (2,418)
(2,429)
(2,996)
(7,674)
(6,443)
(13,321) 7,208 6,478 10,954 26,298 43,179 (17,034) 203 2,510 5,220 1,721 890 58 1,171 9,088 4,928 (653)
(428)
(3,149)
(559)
(7,414)
(24,961)
(9,500)
(5,500)
(550)
(198) 324 7,401 (1,236) 6,452 (1,900)
(11,665)
(11,060) 36,355 43,652 (27,762)
(2) 5 (2,045) 1,553 (1,041)
(1,900)
(11,667)
(11,055) 34,310 45,205 (28,803)
(671) 317 (2,152)
(652)
(27,256)
(45,572) 4,603 (3,784) 20,623 9,474 1,883 136 37,970 81,065 116,172 (2,554)
(1,675)
(1,936)
(97,600)
(83,341)
(67,057) 2,965 12,006 (1,263) 623 (1,249)
(4,790)
(8,986)
(12,408)
(2,351) 9,500 5,500 (2,000)
-(
633)
(330)
(514)
(3,317)
(2,691)
(1,862)
(2,134)
(8,352)
(2,638)
(59,629)
(26,507) 25,453 (116) 131 (59)
(2,134)
(8,352)
(2,638)
(59,745)
(26,376) 25,394 (125) 176 (52)
(208) 619 (633) 10,587 (3,436) 5,388 (4,142) 26,874 27,927 8,654 12,090 6,702 64,540 37,666 9,739 19,241 8,654 12,090 60,398 64,540 37,666 126 1,956 255
$19,241
$ 8,654
$ 12,090
$60,272
$ 62,584
$ 37,411 (731)
(768)
$ (1,190)
$(16,401)
$(18,833)
$ (24,663)
(2,775)
(3,078)
(2,627) 104 543 (610)
(a) Represents the adding together of all affiliated companies except General Electric Capital Services, Inc. (GECS or financial services), which is presented on a one-line basis. See Note 1.
In the consolidating data on this page, "GE" means the basis of consolidation as described in Note 1 to the consolidated financial statements; "GECS" means General Electric Capital Services, Inc. and all of its affiliates and associated companies. Separate information is shown for "GE" and "GECS." Transactions between GE and GECS have been eliminated from the "General Electric Company and consolidated affiliates" columns on the prior page and are discussed in Note 27.
GE 2010 ANNUAL REPORT 71
NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS Note 1.
Summary of Significant Accounting Policies Accounting Principles Our financial statements are prepared in conformity with U.S.
generally accepted accounting principles (GAAPI.
Consolidation Our financial statements consolidate all of our affiliates-entities in which we have a controlling financial interest, most often because we hold a majority voting interest. To determine if we hold a controlling financial interest in an entity we first evaluate if we are required to apply the variable interest entity (VIE) model to the entity, otherwise the entity is evaluated under the voting interest model.
Where we hold current or potential rights that give us the power to direct the activities of a VIE that most significantly impact the VIE's economic performance combined with a variable interest that gives us the right to receive potentially significant benefits or the obligation to absorb potentially significant losses, we have a controlling financial interest in that VIE. Rights held by others to remove the party with power over the VIE are not considered unless one party can exercise those rights unilaterally. When changes occur to the design of an entity we reconsider whether it is subject to the VIE model. We.continuously evaluate whether we have a controlling financial interest in a VIE.
We hold a controlling financial interest in other entities where we currently hold, directly or indirectly, more than 50% of the voting rights or where we exercise control through substantive participating rights or as a general partner.Where we are a gen-eral partner we consider substantive removal rights held by other partners in determining if we hold a controlling financial interest.
We evaluate whether we have a controlling financial interest in these entities whenour voting or substantive participating rights change.
Associated companies are unconsolidated VIEs and other entities in which we do not have a controlling financial interest, but over which we have significant influence, most often because we hold a voting interest of 20% to 50%. Associated companies are accounted for as equity method investments. Results of associated companies are presented on a one-line basis. Invest-ments in, and advances to, associated companies are presented on a one-line basis in the caption "All other assets" in our Statement of Financial Position, net of allowance for losses that represents our best estimate of probable losses inherent in such assets.
Financial Statement Presentation We have reclassified certain prior-year amounts to conform to the current-year's presentation.
Financial data and related measurements are presented in the following categories:
GE-This represents the adding together of all affiliates other than General Electric Capital Services, Inc. (GECS), whose operations are.presented on a one-line basis.
" GEcS-This affiliate owns all of the common stock of General Electric Capital Corporation (GECC). GECC and its respective affiliates are consolidated in the accompanying GECS columns and constitute the majority of its business.
- CONSOLIDATED-This represents the adding together of GE and GECS, giving effect to the elimination of transactions between GE and GECS.
" OPERATING SEGMENTS-These comprise our five businesses, focused on the broad markets they serve: Energy Infrastructure, Technology Infrastructure, NBC Universal (NBCU), GE Capital and Home & Business Solutions. Prior-period information has been reclassified to be consistent with how we managed our busi-nesses in 2010.
Unless otherwise indicated, information in these notes to consoli-dated financial statements relates to continuing operations.
Certain of our operations have been presented as discontinued.
See Note 2.
The effects of translating to U.S. dollars the financial state-ments of non-U.S. affiliates whose functional currency is the local currency are included in shareowners' equity. Asset and liability accounts are translated at year-end exchange rates, while rev-enues and expenses are translated at average rates for the respective periods.
Preparing financial statements in conformity with U.S. GAAP requires us to make estimates based on assumptions about current, and for some estimates future, economic and market conditions (for example, unemployment, market liquidity, the real estate market, etc.), which affect reported amounts and related disclosures in our financial statements. Although our current estimates contemplate current conditions and how we expect them to change in the future, as appropriate, it is reasonably possible that in 2011 actual conditions could be worse than antici-pated in those estimates, which could materially affect our results of operations and financial position. Among other effects, such changes could result in future impairments of investment securi-ties, goodwill, intangibles and long-lived assets, incremental losses on financing receivables, establishment of valuation allow-ances on deferred tax assets and increased tax liabilities.
Sales of Goods and Services We record all sales of goods and services only when a firm sales agreement is in place, delivery has occurred or services have been rendered and collectibility of the fixed or determinable sales price is reasonably assured.
Arrangements for the sale of goods and services sometimes include multiple components. Most of our multiple component arrangements involve the sale of goods and services in the Technology Infrastructure segment. Our arrangements with multiple components usually involve future service deliverables such as installation, training or the future delivery of ancillary equipment. In such agreements, the amount assigned to each component is based on the total price and the undelivered com-ponent's objectively determined fair value, determined from sources such as the separate selling price for that or a similar component or from competitor prices for similar components. If fair value of an undelivered component cannot be satisfactorily 72 GE 2010 ANNUAL REPORT
NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS determined, we defer revenue until all components of an arrange-ment are delivered.
Except for goods sold under long-term agreements, we recog-nize sales of goods under the provisions of U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC) Staff Accounting Bulletin (SAB) 104, Revenue Recognition. We often sell consumer products, home videos and coriiputer hardware and software products with a right of return. We use our accumulated experience to estimate and provide for such returns when we record the sale. In situa-tions where arrangements include customer acceptance provisions based on seller or customer-specified objective crite-ria, we recognize revenue when we have reliably demonstrated thatall specified acceptance criteria have been met or when formal acceptance occurs. In arrangements where we provide goods for trial and evaluation purposes, we only recognize rev-enue after customer acceptance occurs. Unless otherwise noted, we do not provide for anticipated losses before we record sales.
Certain of our sales of goods and services involve inconse-quential or perfunctory performance obligations. These obligations can include non-essential installation or training, and in some instances provision of product manuals and limited technical product support. When the only remaining undelivered performance obligation under an arrangement is inconsequential
-or perfunctory, we recognize revenue on the total contract and provide for the cost of the unperformed obligation.
We recognize revenue on agreements for sales of goods and services under power generation unit and uprate contracts; nuclear fuel assemblies; larger oil drilling equipment projects; aeroderivative unit contracts; military development contracts; and long-term construction projects, using long-term construc-tion and production contract accounting. We estimate total long-term contract revenue net of price concessions as well as total contract costs. For goods sold under power generation unit and uprate contracts, nuclear fuel assemblies, aeroderivative unit contracts and military developmentcontracts, we recognize sales as we complete major contract-specified deliverables, most often when customers receive title to the goods or accept the services as performed. For larger oil drilling equipment projects and long-term construction projects, we recognize sales based on our progress towards contract completion measured by actual costs incurred in relation to our estimate of total expected costs. We measure long-term contract revenues by applying our contract-specific estimated margin rates to incurred costs. We routinely update our estimates of future costs for agreements in process and report any cumulative effects of such adjustments in current operations. We provide for any loss that we expect to incur on these agreements when that loss is probable.
We recognize revenue upon delivery for sales of aircraft engines, military propulsion equipment and related spare parts not sold under long-term product services agreements. Delivery of commercial engines, non-U.S. military equipment and all related spare parts occurs on shipment; delivery of military pro- -
pulsion equipment sold to the U.S. Government or agencies thereof occurs upon receipt of a Material Inspection and Receiving Report, DD Form 250 or Memorandum of Shipment. Commercial aircraft engines are complex aerospace equipment manufactured to customer order under a variety of sometimes complex, long-term agreements. We measure sales of commercial aircraft engines by applying our contract-specific estimated margin rates to incurred costs. We routinely update our estimates of future revenues and costs for commercial aircraft engine agreements in process and report any cumulative effects of such adjustments in current operations. Significant components of our revenue and cost estimates include price concessions, performance-related guarantees as well as material, labor and overhead costs. We measure revenue for military propulsion equipment and spare parts not subject to long-term product services agreements based on the specific contract on a specifically-measured output basis. We provide for any loss that we expect to incur on these agreements when that loss is probable; consistent with industry practice, for commercial aircraft engines, we make such provision only if such losses are not recoverable from future highly probable sales of spare parts for those engines.
We sell product services under long-term product mainte-nance or extended warranty agreements in our Technology Infrastructure and Energy Infrastructure segments, principally in Aviation, Energy and Transportation, where costs of performing services are incurred on other than a straight-line basis. We also sell product services in Healthcare, where such costs generally are expected to be on a straight-line'basis. For the Aviation, Energy and Transportation agreements,we recognize related sales based on the extent of our progress towards completion measured by actual costs incurred in relation to total expected costs. We rou-tinely update our estimates of future costs for agreements in process and report any cumulative effects of such adjustments in current operations. For the Healthcare agreements, we recognize revenues on a straight-line basis and expense related costs as.
incurred. We provide for any loss that we expect to incur on any of these agreements when that loss is probable.
NBC Universal records broadcast and cable television and Internet advertising sales when advertisements are aired, net of provision for any viewer shortfalls (make goods). We record sales from theatrical distribution of films as the films are exhibited; sales of home videos, net of a return provision, when the videos are delivered to and available for sale by retailers; fees from cable/
satellite operators when services are provided; and licensing of film and television programming when we make the material available for airing.
GECS Revenues from Services (Earned Income)
We use the interest method to recognize income on loans.
Interest on loans includes origination, commitment and other non-refundable fees related to funding (recorded in earned income on.the interest method). We stop accruing interest at the earlier of the time at which collection of an account becomes doubtful or the account becomes 90 days past due. Previously recognized interest income that was accrued but not collected from the borrower is evaluated as part of the overall receivable in determining the adequacy of the allowance for losses. Although we stop accruing interest in advance of payments, we recognize interest income as cash is collected when appropriate, provided the amount does not exceed that which would have been earned at the historical effective interest rate; otherwise, payments received are applied to reduce the principal balance of the loan.
We resume accruing interest on nonaccrual, non-restructured commercial loans only when (a) payments are brought current GE 2010 ANNUAL REPORT 73
NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS according to the loan's original terms and VbI future payments are reasonably assured. When we agree to restructured terms with the borrower, we resume accruing interest only when it is reason-ably assured that we will recover full contractual payments, and such loans pass underwriting reviews equivalent to those applied to new loans. We resume accruing interest on nonaccrual con-sumer loans when the customer's account is less than 90 days past due and collection of such amounts is probable. Interest accruals on modified consumer loans that are not considered to be troubled debt restructurings (TDRs) may return to current status (re-agedl only after receipt of at least three consecutive minimum monthly payments or the equivalent cumulative amount, subject to a re-aging limitation of once a year, or twice in a five-year period.
We recognize financing lease income on the interest method to produce a level yield on funds not yet recovered. Estimated unguaranteed residual values are based upon management's best estimates of the value of the leased asset at the end of the lease term. We use various sources of data in determining this estimate, including information obtained from third parties, which is adjusted for the attributes of the specific asset under lease.
Guarantees of residual values by unrelated third parties are con-sidered part of minimum lease payments. Significant assumptions we use in estimating residual values include estimated net cash flows over the remaining lease term, anticipated results of future remarketing, and estimated future component part and scrap metal prices, discounted at an appropriate rate.
We recognize operating lease income on a straight-line basis over the terms of underlying leases.
Fees include commitment fees related to loans that we do not expect to fund and line-of-credit fees. We record these fees in earned income on a straight-line basis over the period to which they relate. We record syndication fees in earned income at the time related services are performed, unless significant contingen-cies exist.
Depreciation and Amortization The cost of GE manufacturing plant and equipment is depreciated over its estimated economic life. U.S. assets are depreciated using an accelerated method based on a sum-of-the-years digits for-mula; non-U.S. assets are generally depreciated on a straight-line basis.
The cost of GECS equipment leased to others on operating leases is depreciated on a straight-line basis to estimated residual value over the lease term or over the estimated economic life of the equipment.
The cost of GECS acquired real estate investments is depreci-ated on a straight-line basis to the estimated salvage value over the expected useful life or the estimated proceeds upon sale of the investment at the end of the expected holding period if that approach produces a higher measure of depreciation expense.
The cost of individually significant customer relationships is amortized in proportion to estimated total related sales; cost of other intangible assets is~generally amortized on a straight-line basis over the asset's estimated economic life. We review long-lived ass6ts for impairment whenever events or changes in circumstances indicate that the related carrying amounts may not be recoverable. See Notes 7 and 8.
NBC Universal Film and Television Costs We defer film and television production costs, including direct costs, production overhead, development costs and interest. We do not defer costs of exploitation, which principally comprise costs of film and television program marketing and distribution.
We amortize deferred film and television production costs, as well as associated participation and residual costs, on an individual production basis using the ratio of the current period's gross revenues to estimated total remaining gross revenues from all sources; we state such costs at the lower of amortized cost or fair value. Estimates of total revenues and costs are based on antici-pated release patterns, public acceptance and historical results for similar products. We defer the costs of acquired broadcast material, including rights to material for use on NBC Universal's broadcast and cable/satellite television networks, at the earlier of acquisition or when the license period begins and the material is available for use. We amortize acquired broadcast material and rights when we broadcast the associated programs; we state such costs at the lower of amortized cost or net realizable value.
Losses on Financing Receivables Losses on financing receivables are recognized when they are incurred, which requires us to make our best estimate of probable losses inherent in the portfolio. The method for calculating the best estimate of losses depends on the size, type and risk charac-teristics of the related financing receivable. Such an estimate requires consideration of historical loss experience, adjusted for current conditions, and judgments about the probable effects of relevant observable data, in'cluding present economic conditions such as delinquency rates, financial health of specific customers and market sectors, collateral values (including housing price indices as applicable), and the present and expected future levels of interest rates. The underlying assumptions, estimates and assessments we use to provide for losses are updated periodi-cally to reflect our View of current conditions. Changes in such estimates can significantly affect the allowance and provision for losses. It is possible that we will experience credit losses that are different from our current estimates. Write-offs are deducted from the allowance for losses when we judge the principal to be uncollectible and subsequent recoveries are added to the allow-ance at the time cash is received on a written-off account.
"Impaired" loans are defined as larger-balance or restructured loans for which it is probable that the lender will be unable to collect all amounts due according to the original contractual terms of the loan agreement. TDRs are those loans for which we have granted a concession to a borrower experiencing financial difficulties where we do not receive adequate compensation.
Such loans are classified as impaired, and are individually reviewed for specific reserves.
"Delinquent" receivables are those that are 30 days or more past due based on their contractual terms; and "nonearning" receivables are those that are 90 days or more past due (or for which collection is otherwise doubtful). Nonearning receivables exclude loans purchased at a discount (unless they have deterio-rated post acquisition). Under ASC 310, Receivobles, these loans are initially recorded at fair value and accrete interest income over the estimated life of the loan based on reasonably estimable cash flows even if the underlying loans are contractually delinquent at 74 GE 2010 ANNUAL REPORT
NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS acquisition. In addition, nonearning receivables exclude loans that are paying on a cash accounting basis but classified as nonaccrual and impaired. "Nonaccrual" financing receivables include all nonearning receivables and are those on which we have stopped accruing interest. We stop accruing interest at the earlier of the-time at which collection of an account becomes doubtful or the account becomes 90 days past due. Recently restructured financing receivables are not considered delinquent when pay-ments are brought current according to the restructured terms, but may remain classified as nonaccrual until there has been a period of satisfactory payment performance by the borrower and future payments are reasonably assured of collection.
When we repossess collateral in satisfaction of a loan, we write down the receivable against the allowance for losses.
Repossessed collateral is included in the caption "All other assets" in the Statement of Financial Position and carried at the lower of cost or estimated fair value less costs to sell.
We write off unsecured closed-end installment loans at 120 days contractually past due and unsecured open-ended revolving loans at 180 days contractually past due. We write down consumer loans secured by collateral other than residential real estate when such loans are 120 days past due. Consumer loans secured by residential real estate (both revolving and closed-end loans) are written down to the fair value of collateral, less costs to sell, no later than when they become 360 days past due. Unsecured consumer loans in bankruptcy are written off within 60 days of notification of filing by the bankruptcy court or within contractual write-off periods, whichever occurs earlier.
Write-offs on larger-balance impaired commercial loans are based on amounts deemed uncollectible and are reviewed quar-terly. Write-offs on Real Estate loans are recorded upon initiation of foreclosure or early settlement by the borrower, or in some cases, based on the passage of time depending on specific facts and circumstances. In Commercial Lending and Leasing (CLLI, loans are written off when deemed uncollectible (e.g., when the borrower enters restructuring, collateral is to be liquidated or at 180 days past due for smaller-balance homogeneous loans).
Our consumer loan portfolio consists of smaller-balance homogeneous loans including card receivables, installment loans, auto loans and leases and residential mortgages. We collectively evaluate each portfolio for impairment quarterly. The allowance for losses on these receivables is established through a process that estimates the probable losses inherent in the portfolio based upon statistical analyses of portfolio data. These analyses include migration analysis, in which historical delinquency and creditloss experience is applied to the current aging of the portfolio, together with other analyses that reflect current trends and conditions. We also consider overall portfolio indicators including nonearning loans, trends in loan volume and lending terms, credit policies and other observable environmental factors such as unemployment rates and home price indices.
Our commercial loan and lease portfolio consists of a variety of loans and leases, including both larger-balance, non-homoge-neous loans and leases and smaller-balance homogeneous commercial and equipment loans and leases. Losses on such loans and leases are recorded when probable and estimable. We routinely evaluate our entire portfolio for potential specific credit or collection issues that might indicate an impairment. For larger-balance, non-homogeneous loans and leases, we consider the financial status, payment history, collateral value, industry conditions and guarantor support related to specific customers.
Any delinquencies or bankruptcies are indications of potential impairment requiring further assessment of collectibility. We routinely receive financial as well as rating agency reports on our customers, and we elevate for further attention those customers whose operations we judge to be marginal or deteriorating. We also elevate customers for further attention when we observe a decline in collateral values for asset-based loans. While collateral values are not always available, when we observe such a decline, we evaluate relevant markets to assess recovery alternatives-for example, for real estate loans, relevant markets are local; for commercial aircraft loans, relevant markets are global.
Measurement of the loss on our impaired loans is based on the present value of expected future cash flows discounted at the loan's effective interest rate or the fair value of collateral, net of expected selling costs if the loan is determined to be collateral dependent. We determine whether a loan is collateral dependent if the repayment of the loan is expected to be provided solely by the underlying collateral. Our review process can often result in reserves being established in advance of a modification of terms or designation as a TDR. After providing for specific incurred losses, we then determine an allowance for losses that have been incurred in the balance of the portfolio but cannot yet be identi-fied to a specific loan or lease. This estimate is based upon various statistical analyses considering historical and projected default rates and loss severity and aging, as well as our view on current market and economic conditions. It is prepared by each respec-tive line of business. For Real Estate, this includes converting economic indicators into real estate market indicators that are calibrated by market and asset class and which are used to pro-ject expected performance of the portfolio based on specific loan portfolio metrics.
We consider multiple factors in evaluating the adequacy of our allowance for losses on Real Estate financing receivables, including loan-to-value ratios, collateral values at the individual loan level, debt service coverage ratios, delinquency status, and economic factors including interest rate and real estate market forecasts. In addition to evaluating these factors, we deem a Real Estate loan to be impaired if its projected loan-to-value ratio at maturity is in excess of 100%, even if the loan is currently paying in accordance with its contractual terms. The allowance for losses on Real Estate financing receivables is based on a discounted cash flow methodology, except in situations where the loan is within 24 months of maturity or foreclosure is deemed probable, in which case reserves are based on collateral values. If foreclo-sure is deemed probable or if repayment is dependent solely on the sale of collateral, we deduct estimated selling costs from the fair value of the underlying collateral values. Collateral values for our Real Estate loans are determined based upon internal cash flow estimates discounted at an appropriate rate and corrobo-rated by external appraisals, as appropriate. Collateral valuations are updated at least semi-annually, or more frequently, for higher risk loans. A substantial majority of our Real Estate impaired loans have specific reserves that are determined based on the underly-ing collateral values. For further discussion on determining fair value see the Fair Value Measurements section below.
GE 2010 ANNUAL REPORT 75
NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS Experience is not available for new products; therefore, while we are, developing that experience, we set loss allowances based on our experience with the most closely analogous products in our portfolio.
Our loss mitigation strategy intends to minimize economic loss and, at times, can result in rate reductions, principal forgive-ness, extensions, forbearance or other actions, which may cause the related loan to be classified as a TDR.
We utilize certain loan modification programs for borrowers experiencing temporary financial difficulties in our Consumer loan portfolio. These loan modification programs are primarily concen-trated in our U.S. credit card and non-U.S. residential mortgage portfolios and include short-term (12 months or less) interest rate reductions and payment deferrals, which were not part of the terms of the original contract. We sold our U.S. residential mort-gage business in 2007 and as such, do not participate in the U.S. government-sponsored mortgage modification programs.
Our allowance for losses on financing receivables on these modified consumer loans is determined based upon a formulaic approach that estimates the probable losses inherent in the portfolio based upon statistical analyses of the portfolio. Data related to redefault experience is also considered in our overall reserve adequacy review. Once the loan has been modified, it returns to current status (re-aged) only after receipt of at least three consecutive minimum monthly payments or the equivalent cumulative amount, subject to a re-aging limitation of once a year, or twice in a five-year period in accordance with the Federal Financial Institutions Examination Council guidelines on Uniform Retail Credit Classification and Account Management policy issued in June 2000. We believe that the allowance for losses would not be materially different had we not re-aged these accounts.
For commercial loans, we evaluate changes in terms and conditions to determine whether those changes meet the criteria for classification as a TDR on a loan-byLloan basis. In CLL, these changes primarily include: changes to covenants, short-term payment deferrals and maturity extensions. For these changes, we receive economic consideration, including additional fees and/
or increased interest rates, and evaluate them under our normal underwriting standards and criteria. Changes to Real Estate's loans primarily include maturity extensions, principal payment acceleration, changes to collateral terms, and cash sweeps, which are in addition to, or sometimes in lieu of, fees and rate increases.
The determination of whether these changes to the terms and conditions of our commercial loans meet the TDR criteria includes our consideration of all of the relevant facts and circumstances.
When the borrower is experiencing finarncial difficulty, we care-fully evaluate these changes to determine whether they meet the form of a concession. In these circumstances, if the change is deemed to be a concession, we classify the loan as a TDR.
Partial Sales of Business Interests On January 1, 2009, we adopted amendments to Accounting Standards Codification (ASC) 810, Consolidation, which requires that gains or losses on sales of affiliate shares where we retain a controlling financial interest to be recorded in equity. Gains or losses on sales that result in our loss of a controlling financial interest are recorded in earnings along with remeasurement gains or losses on any investments in the entity that we retained.
Effective January 1, 2009, we adopted Accounting Standards Update (ASUI 2010-02, Accounting and Reporting for Decreases in Ownership of a Subsidiary, which clarified the scope of Topic 810, Consolidation. Prior to January 1, 2009, we recorded gains or losses on sales of their own shares by affiliates except when realization of gains was not reasonably assured, in which case we recorded the results in shareowners' equity. We recorded gains or losses on sales of interests in commercial and military engine and aeroderivative equipment programs.
Cash and Equivalents Debt securities and money market instruments with original maturities of three months or less are included in cash equiva-lents unless designated as available-for-sale and classified as investment securities.
Investment Securities We report investments in debt and marketable equity securities, and certain other equity securities, at fair value. See Note 21 for further information on fair value. Unrealized gains and losses on available-for-sale investment securities are included in shareown-ers' equity, net of applicable taxes and other adjustments. We regularly review investment securities for impairment using both quantitative and qualitative criteria.
If we do not intend to sell the security or it is not more likely than not that we will be required to sell the security before recov-ery of our amortized cost, we evaluate qualitative criteria to determine whether we do not expect to recover the amortized cost basis of the security, such as the financial health of and specific prospects for the issuer, including whether the issuer is in compliance with the terms and covenants of the security. We also evaluate quantitative criteria including determining whether there has been an adverse change in expected future cash flows. If we do not expect to recover the entire amortized cost basis of the security, we consider the security to be other-than-temporarily impaired, and we record the difference between the security's amortized cost basis and its recoverable amount in earnings and the difference between the security's recoverable amount and fair value in other comprehensive income. If we intend to sell the security or it is more likely than not we will be required to sell the security before recovery of its amortized cost basis, the security is also considered other-than-temporarily impaired and we recog-nize the entire difference between the security's amortized cost basis and its fair value in earnings.
Prior to April 1, 2009, unrealized losses that were other-than-temporary were recognized in earnings at an amount equal to the difference between the security's amortized cost and fair value. In determining whether the unrealized loss was other-than-tempo-rary, we considered both quantitative and qualitative criteria.
Quantitative criteria included the length of time and magnitude of the amount that each security was in an unrealized loss position and, for securities with fixed maturities, whether the issuer was in compliance with terms and covenants of the security. For struc-tured securities, we evaluated whether there was an adverse change in the timing or amount of expected cash flows. Qualitative criteria included the financial health of and specific prospects for the issuer, as well as our intent and ability to hold the security to maturity or until forecasted recovery.
76 GE2010 ANNUAL REPORT
NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS Realized gains and losses are accounted for on the specific identification method. Unrealized gains and losses on investment securities classified as trading and certain retained interests are included in earnings.
Inventories All inventories are stated at the lower of cost or realizable values.
Cost for a significant portion of GE U.S. inventories is determined on a last-in, first-out (LIFO) basis. Cost of other GE inventories is determined on a first-in, first-out (FIFO) basis. LIFO was used for 39% of GE inventories at both December 31, 2010 and 2009. GECS inventories consist of finished products held for sale; cost is determined on a FIFO basis.
Intangible Assets We do not amortize goodwill, but test it at least annually for impairment at the reporting unit level. A reporting unit is the operating segment, or a business one level below that operating segment (the component level) if discrete financial information is prepared and regularly reviewed by segment management.
However, components are aggregated as a single reporting unit if they have similar economic characteristics. We recognize an impairment charge if the carrying amount of a reporting unit exceeds its fair value and the carrying amount of the reporting unit's goodwill exceeds the implied fair value of that goodwill. We use discounted cash flows to establish fair values. When available and as appropriate, we use comparative market multiples to corroborate discounted cash flow results. When all or a portion of a reporting unit is disposed of, goodwill is allocated to the gain or loss on disposition based on the relative fair values of the busi-ness disposed of and the portion of the reporting unit that will be retained.
We amortize the cost of other intangibles over their estimated useful lives unless such lives are deemed indefinite. The cost of intangible assets is generally amortized on a straight-line basis over the asset's estimated economic life, except that individually significant customer-related intangible assets are amortized in relation to total related sales.;Amortizable intangible assets are tested for impairment based on undiscounted cash flows and, if impaired, written down to fair value based on either discounted cash flows or appraised values. Intangible assets with indefinite lives are tested annually for impairment and written down to fair value as required.
GECS Investment Contracts, Insurance Liabilities and Insurance Annuity Benefits Certain entities, which we consolidate, provide guaranteed investment contracts to states, municipalities and municipal authorities.
Our insurance activities also include providing insurance and reinsurance for life and health risks and providing certain annuity products. Three product groups are provided: traditional insur-ance contracts, investment contracts and universal life insurance contracts. Insurance contracts are contracts with significant mortality and/or morbidity risks, while investment contracts are contracts without such risks. Universal life insurance contracts are a particular type of long-duration insurance contract whose terms are not fixed and guaranteed.
For short-duration insurance contracts, including accident and health insurance, we report premiums as earned income over the terms of the related agreements, generally on a pro-rata basis. For traditional long-duration insurance contracts including term, whole life and annuities payable for the life of the annuitant, we report premiums as earned income when due.
Premiums received on investment contracts (including annui-ties without significant mortality risk) and universal life contracts are not reported as revenues but rather as deposit liabilities. We recognize revenues for charges and assessments on these con-tracts, mostly for mortality, contract initiation, administration and surrender. Amounts credited to policyholder accounts are charged to expense.
Liabilities for traditional long-duration insurance contracts represent the present value of such benefits less the present value of future net premiums based on mortality, morbidity, interest and other assumptions at the time the policies were issued or acquired. Liabilities for investment contracts and uni-versal life policies equal the account value, that is, the amount that accrues to the benefit of the contract or policyholder includ-ing credited interest and assessments through the financial statement date.
Liabilities for unpaid claims and estimated claim settlement expenses represent our best estimate of the ultimate obligations for reported and incurred-but-not-reported claims and the related estimated claim settlement expenses. Liabilities for.
unpaid claims and estimated claim settlement expenses are continually reviewed and adjusted through current operations.
Fair Value Measurements For financial assets and liabilities measured at fair value on a recurring basis, fair value is the price we would receive to sell an asset or pay to transfer a liability in an orderly transaction with a market participant at the measurement date. In the absence of active markets for the identical assets or liabilities, such measure-ments involve developing assumptions based on market observable data and, in the absence of such data, internal informa-tion that is consistent with what market participants would use in a hypothetical transaction that occurs at the measurement date.
Observable inputs reflect market data obtained from indepen-dent sources, while unobservable inputs reflect our market assumptions. Preference is given to observable inputs. These two types of inputs create the following fair value hierarchy:
Level 1-Quoted prices for identical instruments in active markets.
Level 2-Quoted prices for similar instruments in active markets; quoted prices for identical or similar instruments in markets that are not active; and model-derived valua-tions whose inputs are observable or whose significant value drivers are observable.
Level 3-Significant inputs to the valuation model are unobservable.
We maintain policies and procedures to value instruments using the best and most relevant data available. In addition, we have risk management teams that review valuation, including GE 2010 ANNUAL REPORT 77
NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS independent price validation for certain instruments. Further, in other instances, we retain independent pricing vendors to assist in valuing certain instruments.
The following section describes the valuation methodologies we use to measure different financial instruments at fair value on a recurring basis.
INVESTMENTS IN DEBT AND EQUITY SECURITIES. When available, we use quoted market prices to determine the fair value of investment securities, and they are included in Level 1. Level 1 securities primarily include publicly-traded equity securities.
When quoted market prices are unobservable, we obtain pricing information from an independent pricing vendor. The pricing vendor uses various pricing models for each asset class that are consistent with what other market participants would use. The inputs and assumptions to the model of the pricing vendor are derived from market observable sources including:
benchmark yields, reported trades, broker/dealer quotes, issuer spreads, benchmark securities, bids, offers, and other market-related data. Since many fixed income securities do not trade on a daily basis, the methodology of the pricing vendor uses avail-able information as applicable such as benchmark curves, benchmarking of like securities, sector groupings, and matrix pricing. The pricing vendor considers available market observ-able inputs in determining the evaluation for a security. Thus, certain securities may not be priced using quoted prices, but rather determined from market observable information. These investments are included in Level 2 and primarily comprise our portfolio of corporate fixed income, and government, mortgage and asset-backed securities. In infrequent circumstances, our pricing vendors may provide us with valuations that are based on significant unobservable inputs, and in those circumstances we classify the investment securities in Level 3.
Annually, we conduct reviews of our primary pricing vendor to validate that the inputs used in that vendor's pricing process are deemed to be market observable as defined in the standard.
While we were not provided access to proprietary models of the vendor, our reviews have included on-site walk-throughs of the pricing process, methodologies and control procedures for each asset class and level for which prices are provided. Our review also included an examination of the underlying inputs and assumptions for a sample of individual securities across asset classes, credit rating levels and various durations, a process we continue to perform for each reporting period. In addition, the pricing vendor has an established challenge process in place for all security valuations, which facilitates identification and resolu-tion of potentially erroneous prices. We believe that the prices received from our pricing vendor are representative of prices that would be received to sell the assets at the measurement date (exit prices) and are classified appropriately in the hierarchy.
We use non-binding broker quotes as our primary basis for valuation when there is limited, or no, relevant market activity for a specific instrument or for other instruments that share similar characteristics. We have not adjusted the prices we have obtained.
Investment securities priced using non-binding broker quotes are included in Level 3. As is the case with our primary pricing vendor, third-party brokers do not provide access to their proprietary valuation models, inputs and assumptions. Accordingly, our risk management personnel conduct internal reviews of pricing for all such investment securities quarterly to ensure reasonableness of valuations used in our financial statements. These reviews are designed to identify prices that appear stale, those that have changed significantly from prior valuations, and other anomalies that may indicate that a price may not be accurate. Based on the information available, we believe that the fair values provided by the brokers are representative of prices that would be received to sell the assets at the measurement date (exit prices).
Retained interests in securitizations are valued using a dis-counted cash flow model that considers the underlying structure of the securitization and estimated net credit exposure, prepay-ment assumptions, discount rates and expected life.
DERIVATIVES. We use closing prices for derivatives included in Level 1, which are traded either on exchanges or liquid over-the-counter markets.
The majority of our derivatives are valued using internal mod-els. The models maximize the use of market observable inputs including interest rate curves and both forward and spot prices for currencies and commodities. Derivative assets and liabilities included in Level 2 primarily represent interest rate swaps, cross-currency swaps and foreign currency and commodity forward and option contracts.
Derivative assets and liabilities included in Level 3 primarily represent interest rate products that contain embedded optional-ity or prepayment features.
Non-Recurring Fair Value Measurements.
Certain assets are measured at fair value on a non-recurring basis.
These assets are not measured at fair value on an ongoing basis, but are subject to fair value adjustments only in certain circum-stances. These assets can include loans and long-lived assets that have been reduced to fair value when they are held for sale, impaired loans that have been reduced based on the fair value of the underlying collateral, cost and equity method investments and long-lived assets that are written down to fair value when they are impaired and the remeasurement of retained invest-ments in formerly consolidated subsidiaries upon a change in control that results in deconsolidation of a subsidiary, if we sell a controlling interest and retain a noncontrolling stake in the entity.
Assets thatare written down to fair value when impaired and retained investments are not subsequently adjusted to fair value unless further impairment occurs.
The following describes the valuation methodologies we use to measure financial and non-financial instruments accounted for at fair value on a non-recurring basis and for assets within our pension plans and retiree benefit plans at each reporting period, as applicable.
LOANS. When available, we use observable market data, including pricing on recent closed market transactions, to value loans that are included in Level 2. When this data is unobservable, we use valuation methodologies using current market interest rate data adjusted for inherent credit risk, and such loans are included in Level 3. When appropriate, loans are valued using collateral val-ues as a practical expedient (see Long-Lived Assets below).
78 GE 2010 ANNUAL REPORT
NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS COST AND EQUITY METHOD INVESTMENTS. Cost and equity method investments are valued using market observable data such as quoted prices when available. When market observable data is unavailable, investments are valued using a discounted cash flow model, comparative market multiples or a combination of both approaches as appropriate. These investments are generally included in Level 3.
Investments in private equity, real estate and collective funds are valued using net asset values. The net asset values are deter-mined based on the fair values of the underlying investments in the funds. Investments in private equity and real estate funds are generally included in Level 3 because they are not redeemable at the measurement date. Investments in collective funds are included in Level 2.
LONG-LIVED ASSETS. Fair values of long-lived assets, including aircraft and real estate, are primarily derived internally and are based on observed sales transactions for similar assets. In other instances, for example, collateral types for which we do not have comparable observed sales transaction data, collateral values are developed internally and corroborated by external appraisal information. Adjustments to third-party valuations may be per-formed in circumstances where market comparables are not specific to the attributes of the specific collateral or appraisal information may not be reflective of current market conditions due to the passage of time and the occurrence of market events since receipt of the information. For real estate, fair values are based on discounted cash flow estimates which reflect current and projected lease profiles and available industry information about capitalization rates and expected trends in rents and occu-pancy and are corroborated by external appraisals. These investments are generally included in Level 3.
RETAINED INVESTMENTS IN FORMERLY CONSOLIDATED SUBSIDIARIES. Upon a change in control that results in deconsoli-dation of a subsidiary, the fair value measurement of our retained noncontrolling stake in the former subsidiary is valued using an income approach, a market approach, or a combination of both approaches as appropriate. In applying these methodologies, we rely on a number of factors, including actual operating results, future business plans, economic projections, market observable pricing multiples of similar businesses and comparable transac-tions, and possible control premium. These investments are included in Level 3.
Accounting Changes the Financial Accounting Standards Board (FASB) made the Accounting Standards Codification (ASC) effective for financial statements issued for interim and annual periods ending after September 15, 2009. The ASC combines all previously issued authoritative GAAP into one set of guidance codified by subject area. In these financial statements, references to previously issued accounting standards have been replaced with the rel-evant ASC references. Subsequent revisions to GAAP by the FASB are incorporated into the ASC through issuance of Accounting Standards Updates IASU).
On January 1, 2010, we adopted ASU 2009-16 and ASU 2009-17, amendments to ASC 860, Transfers and Servicing, and ASC 810, Consolidation, respectively (ASU 2009-16 & 17). ASU 2009-16 eliminated the qualified special purpose entity (QSPE) concept, and ASU 2009-17 required that all such entities be evalu-ated for consolidation as VIEs. Adoption of these amendments resulted in the consolidation of all of our sponsored QSPEs. In addition, we consolidated assets of VIEs related to direct invest-ments in entities that hold loans and fixed income securities, a media joint venture and a small number of companies to which we have extended loans in the ordinary course of business and subsequently were subject to a TDR.
We consolidated the assets and liabilities of these entities at amounts at which they would have been reported in our financial statements had we always consolidated them. We also deconsoli-dated certain entities where we did not meet the definition of the primary beneficiary under the revised guidance; however, the effect was insignificant at January 1, 2010. The incremental effect on total assets and liabilities, net of our investment in these enti-ties,was an increase of $31,097 million and $33,042 million, respectively, at January 1, 2010. The net reduction of total equity (including noncontrolling interests) was $1,945 million at January 1, 2010, principally related to the reversal of previously recognized securitization gains as a cumulative effect adjustment to retained earnings. See.Note 24 for additional information.
On January 1, 2009, we adopted an amendment to ASC 805, Business Combinations. This amendment significantly changed the accounting for business acquisitions both during the period of the acquisition and in subsequent periods. Among the more significant changes in the accounting for acquisitions are the following:
" Acquired in-process research and development (IPR&D) is accounted for as an asset, with the cost recognized as the research and development is realized or abandoned. IPR&D was previously expensed at the time of the acquisition.
" Contingent consideration is recorded at fair value as an element of purchase price with subsequent adjustments recognized in operations. Contingent consideration was previously accounted for as a subsequent adjustment of purchase price.
" Subsequent decreases in valuation allowances on acquired deferred tax assets are recognized in operations after the measurement period. Such changes were previously consid-ered to be subsequent changes in consideration and were recorded as decreases in goodwill.
" Transaction costs are expensed. These costs were previously treated as costs of the acquisition.
- Upon gaining control of an entity in which an equity method or cost basis investment was held, the carrying value of that investment is adjusted to fair value with the related gain or loss recorded in earnings. Previously, this fair value adjust-ment would not have been made.
In April 2009, the FASB amended ASC 805 and changed the previous accounting for assets and liabilities arising from contin-gencies in a business combination. We adopted this amendment retrospectively effective January 1, 2009. The amendment GE 2010 ANNUAL REPORT 79
NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS requires pre-acquisition contingencies to be recognized at fair value, if fair value can be determined or reasonably estimated during the measurement period. If fair value cannot be determined or reasonably estimated, the standard requires mea-surement based on the recognition and measurement criteria of ASC 450, Contingencies.
On January 1, 2009, we adopted an amendment to ASC 810, that requires us to make certain changes to the presentation of our financial statements. This amendment requires us to classify earnings attributable to nonconfrolling interests (previously referred to as "minority interest") as part of consolidated net earnings ($535 million and $200 million for 2010 and 2009, respec-tively) and to include the accumulated amount of noncontrolling interests as part of shareowners' equity ($5,262 million and
$7,845 million at December 31, 2010 and 2009, respectively). The net earnings amounts we have previously reported are now presented as "Net earnings attributable to the Company" and, as required, earnings per share continues to reflect amounts attrib-utable only to the Company. Similarly, in our presentation of shareowners' equity, we distinguish between equity amounts attributable to GE shareowners and amounts attributable to the noncontrolling interests-previously classified as minority inter-est outside of shareowners' equity. Beginning January 1, 2009, dividends to noncontrolling interests ($317 million and $548 mil-lion in 2010 and 2009, respectively) are classified as financing cash flows. In addition to these financial reporting changes, this guidance provides for significant changes in accounting related to noncontrolling interests; specifically, increases and decreases in our controlling financial interests in consolidated subsidiaries will be reported in equity similar to treasury stock transactions. If a change in ownership of a consolidated subsidiary results in loss of control and deconsolidation, any retained ownership interests are remeasured with the gain or loss reported in net earnings.
Effective January 1, 2009, we adopted ASC 808, Collaborative Arrangements, that requires gross basis presentation of revenues and expenses for principal participants in collaborative arrange-ments. Our Technology Infrastructure and Energy Infrastructure segments enter into collaborative arrangements with manufac-turers and suppliers of components used to build and maintain certain engines, aeroderivatives, and turbines, under which GE and these participants share in risks and rewards of these prod-uct programs. Adoption of the standard had no effect as our historical presentation had been consistent with the new requirements.
We adopted amendments to ASC 320, Investments-Debt and Equity Securities, and recorded a cumulative effect adjust-ment to increase retained earnings as of April 1, 2009, of
$62 million. See Note 3.
We adopted ASC 820, Fair Value Measurements ond Disclosures, in two steps; effective January 1, 2008, we adopted it for all finan-cial instruments and non-financial instruments accounted for at fair value on a recurring basis and effective January 1, 2009, for all non-financial instruments accounted for at fair value on a non-recurring basis. This guidance establishes a new framework for measuring fair value and expands related disclosures. See Note 21.
Effective January 1, 2008, we adopted ASC 825, Financial Instruments. Upon adoption, we elected to report $172 million of commercial mortgage loans at fair value in order to recognize them on the same accounting basis (measured at fair value through earnings) as the derivatives economically hedging these loans.
Note 2.
Assets and Liabilities of Businesses Held for Sale and Discontinued Operations Assets and Liabilities of Businesses Held for Sale NBC UNIVERSAL In December 2009, we entered into an agreement with Comcast Corporation (Comcast) to transfer the assets of the NBCU busi-ness to a newly formed entity, comprising our NBCU business and Comcast's cable networks, regional sports networks, certain digital properties and certain unconsolidated investments, in exchange for cash and a 49% interest in the newly formed entity.
On March 19, 2010, NBCU entered into a three-year credit agreement and a 364-day bridge loan agreement. On April 30, 2010, NBCU issued $4,000 million of senior, unsecured notes with maturities ranging from 2015 to 2040 (interest rates ranging from 3.65% to 6.40%). On October 4, 2010, NBCU issued $5,100 million of senior, unsecured notes with maturities ranging from 2014 to 2041 (interest rates ranging from 2.10% to 5.95%). Subsequent to these issuances, the credit agreement and bridge loan agree-ments were terminated, with a $750 million revolving credit agreement remaining in effect. Proceeds from these issuances were used to repay $1,678 million of existing debt and pay a dividend to GE.
On September 26, 2010, we acquired approximately 38% of Vivendi S.A.'s (Vivendi) 20% interest in NBCU (7.7% of NBCU's outstanding shares) for $2,000 million.
Prior to and in connection with the transaction with Comcast, we acquired the remaining Vivendi interest in NBCU (12.3% of NBCU's outstanding shares) for $3,578 million and made an additional payment of $222 million related to the previously purchased shares.
On January 28, 2011, we transferred the assets of the NBCU business and Comcast transferred certain of its assets to a newly formed entity, NBC Universal LLC (NBCU LLC). In connection with the transaction, we received $6,197 million in cash from Comcast and a 49% interest in NBCU LLC. Comcast holdsthe remaining 51% inter-est in NBCU LLC. We will account for our investment in NBCU LLC under the equity method. As a result of the transaction, we expect to recognize a small after-tax gain in the first quarter of 2011.
80 GE 2010 ANNUAL REPORT
NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS With respect to our 49% interest in NBCU LLC, we hold redemption rights, which, if exercised, cause NBCU LLC or Comcast to purchase half of our ownership interest after three and a half years and the remaining half after seven years (either directly or through the transfer of common stock of the corporate owner of NBCU LLCI subject to certain exceptions, conditions and limitations. Our interest in NBCU LLC is also subject to call provi-sions, which, if exercised, allow Comcast to purchase our interest (either directly or through the transfer of common stock of the corporate owner of NBCU LLC) at specified times subject to cer-tain exceptions. The redemption prices for such transactions are determined pursuant to a contractually specified formula.
In connection with the transaction, we also entered into a number of agreements with Comcast governing the operation of the venture and transitional services, employee, tax and other matters. Under the operating agreement, excess cash generated by the operations of NBCU LLC will be used to reduce borrowings rather than to pay distributions to us, except for distributions under a formula to enable us to pay taxes on NBCU LLC's profits.
In addition, Comcast is obligated to make payments to us for a share of tax savings associated with Comcast's purchase of its NBCU LLC member interest.
As part of the transfer, we provided guarantees and indemnifi-cations related to certain pre-existing contractual arrangements entered into by NBCU. We have provided guarantees, on behalf of NBCU LLC, for the acquisition of sports programming in the amount of $3,258 million, triggered only in the event NBCU LLC fails to meet its payment commitments. We also have agreed to indemnify Comcast against any loss (after giving consideration to underlying collateral) related to a pre-existing credit support agreement covering $815 million of debt plus accrued interest owed by a joint venture of NBCU LLC.
At December 31, 2010, we classified the NBCU assets and liabilities of $33,758 million and $15,455 million, respectively, as held for sale. The major classes of assets at December 31, 2010 were current receivables ($2,572 million), property, plant and equipment-net ($2,082 million), goodwill and other intangible assets-net ($22,263 million) and all other assets ($6,841 million),
including film and television production costs of $4,423 million.
The major classes of liabilities at December 31, 2010 were accounts payable ($492 million), other GE current liabilities
($3,983 millionl, long-term debt ($9,906 million) and all other liabilities ($1,073 million).
At December 31, 2009, we classified the NBCU assets and liabilities of $32,150 million and $5,751 million, respectively, as held for sale. The major classes of assets at December 31, 2009 were current receivables ($2,136 million), property, plant and equipment-net ($1,805 million), goodwill and other intangible assets-net ($21, 574 million) and all other assets ($6,514 million),
including film and television production costs of $4,507 million.
The major classes of liabilities at December 31, 2009 were accounts payable ($398 million), other GE current liabilities
($4,051 million) and all other liabilities ($1,300 million).
OTHER In 2010, we committed to sell GE Capital Consumer businesses in Argentina, Brazil, and Canada, a CLL business in South Korea, and our Interpark business in Real Estate. Assets and liabilities of these businesses of $3,127 million and $592 million, respectively, were classified as held for sale at December 31, 2010.
On November 12, 2009, we committed to sell our Security business (within Corporate Items and 'Eliminations). On February 28, 2010, we completed the sale of our Security busi-ness for $1,787 million. Assets and liabilities of $1,780 million and $282 million, respectively, were classified as held for sale at December 31, 2009.
On January 7, 2009, we exchanged our Consumer businesses in Austria and Finland, the credit card and auto businesses in the U.K., and the credit card business in Ireland for a 100% ownership interest in Interbanca S.p.A., an Italian corporate bank. We recog-nized a $184 million loss, net of tax, related to the classification of the assets held for sale at the lower of carrying amount or esti-mated fair value less costs to sell.
On December 24, 2008, we committed to sell a portion of our Australian residential mortgage business, including certain underlying mortgage receivables, and completed this sale during the first quarter of 2009. We recognized a $38 million loss, net of.
tax, related to the classifications of the assets held for sale at the lower of carrying amount or estimated fair value less costs to sell.
Summarized financial information for businesses held for sale is shown below.
December 31 In millions) 2010 2009 ASSETS Cash and equivalents 63 Current receivables 2,572 2,188 Financing receivables-net 1,917 Property, plant and equipment-net 2,185 1,978 Goodwill 19,606 20,086 Other intangible assets-net 2,844 2,866 All other assets 7,560 6,621 Other 140 372 Assets of businesses held for sale
$36,887
$34,111 LIABILITIES Accounts payable 538 451 Other GE current liabilities 3,994 4,139 Long-term borrowings 10,134 2
All other liabilities 1,378 1,447 Other 3
53 Liabilities of businesses held for sale
$16,047
$ 6,092 Discontinued Operations Discontinued operations primarily comprised BAC Credomatic GECF Inc. IBAC) (our Central American bank and card business),
GE Money Japan (our Japanese personal loan business, Lake, and our Japanese mortgage and card businesses, excluding our investment in GE Nissen Credit Co., Ltd.), our U.S. mortgage busi-ness (WMCI, our U.S. recreational vehicle and marine equipment financing business (Consumer RV Marine), Consumer Mexico and Plastics. Associated results of operations, financial position and cash flows are separately reported as discontinued opera-tions for all periods presented.
GE 2010 ANNUAL REPORT 81
NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS Summarized financial information for discontinued operations is shown below.
(In millions) 2010 2009 2008 OPERATIONS Total revenues
$1,417
$1,502
$1,626 Earnings (loss) from discontinued operations before income taxes 92
$ 208
$ (560)
Benefit (provision) for income taxes 113 (23) 282 Earnings (loss) from discontinued operations, net of taxes
$ 205
$ 185
$ (278)
DISPOSAL Loss on disposal before income taxes
$(1,420)
$ (1961
$(1,4581 Benefit for income taxes 236 93 1,119 Loss on disposal, net of taxes
$(1,184)
$ (103)
$ (339)
Earnings (loss) from discontinued operations, net of taxes(a)
$ (979) 82
$ (617)
(a) The sum of GE industrial earnings (loss) from discontinued operations, net of taxes, and GECS earnings (loss) from discontinued operations, net of taxes, is reported as GE industrial earnings (loss) from discontinued operations, net of taxes, on the Statement of Earnings.
December 31 (in millions) 2010 2009 ASSETS Cash and equivalents
$ 126
$ 1,956 Financing receivables-net 3,546 9,985 All other assets 42 142 Other 1,564 3,045 Assets of discontinued operations
$5,278
$15,128 LIABILITIES Short-term borrowings
$ 5,314 Long-term borrowings 1,434 All other liabilities 1,933 1,394 Other 374 344 Liabilities of discontinued operations
$2,307
$ 8,486 Assets at December 31, 2010 and 2009 primarily comprised cash, financing receivables and a deferred tax asset for a loss carryfor-ward, which expires in 2015, related to the sale of our GE Money Japan business.
BAC CREDOMATIC GECF INC.
During the fourth quarter of 2010, we classified BAC as discontin-ued operations and completed the sale of BAC for $1,920 million.
Immediately prior to the sale, and in accordance with terms of a previous agreement, we increased our ownership interest in BAC from 75% to 100% for a purchase price of $633 million. As a result of the sale of our interest in BAC, we recognized an after-tax gain of $780 million in 2010.
BAC revenues from discontinued operations were $983 million,
$943 million and $159 million in 2010, 2009 and 2008, respectively.
In total, BAC earnings from discontinued operations, net of taxes, were $854 million, $292 million and $89 million in 2010,2009 and 2008, respectively.
GE MONEY JAPAN During the third quarter of 2007, we committed to a plan to sell our Japanese personal loan business, Lake, upon determining that, despite restructuring, Japanese regulatory limits for inter-est charges on unsecured personal loans did not permit us to earn an acceptable return. During the third quarter of 2008, we completed the sale of GE Money Japan, which included Lake, along with our Japanese mortgage and card businesses, exclud-ing our investment in GE Nissen Credit Co., Ltd. As a result, we recognized an after-tax loss of $908 million in 2007 and an incre-mental loss of $361 million in 2008. In connection with the sale, we reduced the proceeds on the sale for estimated interest refund claims in excess of the statutory interest rate. Proceeds from the sale were to be increased or decreased based on the actual claims experienced in accordance with loss-sharing terms specified in the sale agreement, with all claims in excess of 258 billion Japanese yen (approximately $3,000 million) remain-ing our responsibility. The underlying portfolio to which this obligation relates is in runoff and interest rates were capped for all designated accounts by mid-2009. In the third quarter of 2010, we began making reimbursements under this arrangement.
Our overall claims experience developed unfavorably through 2010. While our average daily claims continued to decline through August 2010, the pace of the decline was slower than expected, and claims severity increased. We believe that the level of excess interest refund claims has been impacted by the challenging global economic conditions, in addition to Japanese legislative and regulatory changes. We accrued $566 million of incremental reserves for these claims during the first six months of 2010, in addition to the third quarter charge discussed below.
Significantly, in September 2010, a large independent per-sonal loan company in Japan filed for bankruptcy, which precipitated a significant amount of publicity surrounding excess interest refund claims in the Japanese marketplace, along with substantial legal advertising. We observed an increase in claims during September 2010 and higher average daily claims in the fourth quarter of 2010. Based on these factors and additional analysis, we recorded an adjustment to our reserves of
$1,100 million in the third quarter of 2010 to bring the reserve to a better estimate of our probable loss. This adjustment primarily reflects revisions in our assumptions and calculations of the number of estimated probable future incoming claims, increases in claims severity assumptions, reflecting recent trends in amounts paid per claim, and higher estimates of loss for claims in process of settlement. As of December 31, 2010, our reserve for reimbursement of claims in excess of the statutory interest rate was $1,465 million.
82 GE 2010 ANNUAL REPORT
NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS The amount of these reserves is based on analyses of recent and historical claims experience, pending and estimated future excess interest refund requests, the estimated percentage of customers who present valid requests, and our estimated pay-ments related to those requests. Our estimated liability for excess interest refund claims at December 31, 2010 assumes the pace of incoming claims will decelerate, average exposure per claim remains consistent with recent experience, and we see the impact of our loss mitigation efforts. Estimating the pace of decline in incoming claims can have a significant effect on the total amount of our liability. For example, our third quarter 2010 estimate assumes incoming average daily claims will decline at a long-term average rate of 4% monthly. Holding all other assump-tions constant, if claims declined at a rate of one percent higher or lower than assumed, our liability estimate would change by approximately $250 million.
Uncertainties around the impact of laws and regulations, challenging economic conditions, the runoff status of the under-lying book of business and the effects of our mitigation efforts make it difficult to develop a meaningful estimate of the aggre-gate possible claims exposure. Recent trends, including the effect of governmental actions, market activity regarding other personal loan companies and consumer activity, may continue to have an adverse effect on claims development.
GE Money Japan revenues from discontinued operations were an insignificant amount in both 2010 and 2009, and $763 million in 2008. In total, GE Money Japan losses from discontinued operations, net of taxes, were $1,671 million, $158 million and $651 million for 2010, 2009 and 2008, respectively.
WMC During the fourth quarter of 2007, we completed the sale of WMC, our U.S. mortgage business. WMC substantially discontin-ued all new loan originations by the second quarter of 2007, and is not a loan servicer. In connection with the sale, WMC retained certain obligations related to loans sold prior to the disposal of the business, including WMC's contractual obligations to repur-chase previously sold loans as to which there was an early payment default or with respect to which certain contractual representations and warranties were not met. All claims received for early payment default have either been resolved or are no longer being pursued.
Pending claims for unmet representations and warranties have declined from approximately $800 million at December 31, 2009 to approximately $350 million at December 31, 2010.
Reserves related to these contractual representations and war-ranties were $101 million at December 31, 2010, and $205 million at December 31, 2009. The amount of these reserves is based upon pending and estimated future loan repurchase requests, the estimated percentage of loans validly tendered for repurchase, and our estimated losses on loans repurchased. Based on our historical experience, we estimate that a small percentage of the total loans WMC originated and sold will be tendered for repur-chase, and of those tendered, only a limited amount will qualify as "validly tendered," meaning the loans sold did not satisfy specified contractual obligations. New claims received over the past three years have declined from $859 million in 2008 to $320 million in 2010. WMC's current reserve represents our best estimate of losses with respect to WMC's repurchase obligations. Actual losses could exceed the reserve amount if actual claim rates, valid ten-ders or losses WMC incurs on repurchased loans are higher than historically observed.
WMC revenues from discontinued operations were $(4) million,
$2 million and $(71) million in 2010, 2009 and 2008, respectively.
In total, WMC's losses from discontinued operations, net of taxes, were $7 million, $1 million and $41 million in 2010, 2009 and 2008, respectively.
OTHER FINANCIAL SERVICES In the fourth quarter of 2010, we entered into agreements to sell our Consumer RV Marine portfolio and Consumer Mexico business. Consumer RV Marine revenues from discontinued operations were $210 million, $260 million and $296 million in 2010, 2009 and 2008, respectively. Consumer RV Marine losses from discontinued operations, net of taxes, were $99 million,
$83 million and $58 million in 2010, 2009 and 2008, respectively.
Consumer Mexico revenues from discontinued operations were
$228 million, $303 million and $479 million in 2010, 2009 and
'2008, respectively. Consumer Mexico earnings (loss) from discon-tinued operations, net of taxes, were $(59) million, $66 million and
$31 million in 2010, 2009 and 2008, respectively.
GE INDUSTRIAL GE industrial earnings (loss) from discontinued operations, net of taxes, were $(4) million, $(18) million and $40 million in 2010, 2009 and 2008, respectively. The sum of GE industrial earnings (loss) from discontinued operations, net of taxes, and GECS earnings (loss) from discontinued operations, net of taxes, is reported as GE industrial earnings (loss) from discontinued operations, net of taxes, on the Statement of Earnings.
Assets of GE industrial discontinued operations were $50 mil-lion at both December 31, 2010 and 2009. Liabilities of GE industrial discontinued operations were $164 million and $163 million at December 31, 2010 and 2009, respectively, and primarily represent taxes payable and pension liabilities related to the sale of our Plastics business in 2007.
GE 2010 ANNUAL REPORT 83
NOTES TO CONSOLIOATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS Note 3.
Investment Securities Substantially all of our investment securities are classified as available-for-sale. These comprise mainly investment grade debt securities supporting obligations to annuitants and policyholders in our run-off insurance operations and holders of guaranteed investment con-tracts (GICs) in Trinity (which ceased issuing new investment contracts beginning in the first quarter of 2010), and investment securities held at our global banks. We do not have any securities classified as held-to-maturity.
2010 Gross Gross Amortized unrealized unrealized Estimated 2009 Gross Gross Amortized unrealized unrealized Estimated December 31 (In millions) cost gains losses fair value cost gains losses fair value GE Debt-U.S. corporate 1
1,
12 4
(1) 15 Equity-available-for-sale 18 18 14 1
15 19 19 26 5
(I) 30 GECS Debt U.S. corporate 21,224 1,582 (234) 22.572 22,413 956 (728) 22,641 State and municipal 2,904 46 (226) 2,724 2,621 42 (269) 2,394 Residential mortgage-backed(a) 3,084 102 (377) 2,809 4,005 79 (766) 3,318 Commercial mortgage-backed 2,883 169 (128) 2,924 3,057 89 (441) 2,705 Asset-backed 3,407 16 (193) 3,230 2990 48 (304) 2,734 Corporate-non-U.S.
2,880 118 (131) 2,867 2,003 75 (55) 2,023 Government-non-U.S.
2,242 82 (58) 2,266 2,621 57 (27) 2,651 U.S. government and federal agency 3,358 57 (47) 3,368 2,526 46 2,572 Retained interests(b) 55 10 (26) 39 8,479 392 (40) 8,831 Equity Available-for-sale 500 213 (8) 705 489 242 (5) 726 Trading 417 417 720 720 42,954 2,395 (1,428) 43,921 51,924 2,026 (2,635) 51,315 ELIMINATIONS
'(2)
(2)
(2)
(2)
Total
$42,971
$2,395
$(1,428)
$43,938
$51,948
$2,031
$(2.636)
$51,343 (a) Substantially collateralized by U.S. mortgages. Of our total residential mortgage-backed securities IRMBS) portfolio at December 31, 2010. $1,318 million relates to securities, issued by government-sponsored entities and $1,491 million relates to securities of private label issuers. Securities issued by private label issuers are collateralized primarily by pools of individual direct mortgage loans of financial institutions.
Vb Included $1,918 million of retained interests at December 31, 2009 accounted for at fair value in accordance with ASC 815, Derivotives ond Hedging. See Note 24.
The fair value of investment securities decreased to $43,938 million at December 31, 2010, from $51:343 million at December 31, 2009, primarily driven by a decrease in retained interests that were consolidated as a result of our adoption of ASU 2009-16 & 17 and maturities, partially offset by improved market conditions.
The following tables present the gross unrealized losses and estimated fair values of our available-for-sale investment securities.
2010 2009 In loss position for Less than 12 months 12 months or more Less than 12 months 12 months or more Gross Gross Gross Gross Estimated unrealized Estimated unrealized Estimated unrealized Estimated unrealized fair value lossesia) fair value losses(al fair value losses fair value losses December 31 (In millions)
Debt U.S. corporate State and municipal Residential mortgage-backed Commercial mortgage-backed Asset-backed Corporate-non-U.S.
Government-non-U.S.
U.S. government and federal agency Retained interests Equity
$2,181
$ (78)
$ 1,519
$ (156)
$2,773
$ (76)
$4,786
$ (653) 920 (31) 570 (195) 937 (141) 575 (128) 102 (3) 1,024 (374) 118 (14) 1,678 (752) 174
- 12) 817 (126) 167
- 15) 1,296 1436) 113 (5) 910 (188) 126 (11) 1,339
.(293) 386 (11) 804 (120) 371 (18) 536 (37) 661 (6) 107 (52) 325 (2) 224 (251 1,822 (47i 34 (26) 208 (16) 27 (24) 49 (8) 92 (2) 10 (3)
$6,408
$(191)
$ 5,785
$(1,237)
$5,117
$(285)
$10,471
$(2,351)
Total I
(a) At December 31, 2010, other-than-temporary impairments previously recognized through other comprehensive income (OCI) on securities still held amounted to $(478) million, of which $(368) million related to RMBS. Gross unrealized losses related to those securities at December 31, 2010, amounted to $(328) million, of which $(232) million related to RMBS.
84 GE 2010 ANNUAL REPORT
NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS We adopted amendments to ASC 320 and recorded a cumulative effect adjustment to increase retained earnings by $62 million as of April 1, 2009.
We regularly review investment securities for impairment using both qualitative and quantitative criteria. We presently do not intend to sell our debt securities and believe that it is not more likely than not that we will be required to sell these securities that are in an unrealized loss position before recovery of our amortized cost. We believe that the unrealized loss associated with our equity securities will be recovered within the foreseeable future.
The vast majority of our U.S. corporate debt securities are rated investment grade by the major rating agencies. We evaluate U.S.
corporate debt securities based on a variety of factors, such as the financial health of and specific'prospects for the issuer, including whether the issuer is in compliance with the terms and covenants of the security. In the event a U.S. corporate debt security is deemed to be other-than-temporarily impaired, we isolate the credit portion of the impairment by comparing the present value of our expectation of cash flows to the amortized cost of the security. We discount the cash flows using the original effective interest rate of the security.
The vast majority of our RMBS have investment grade credit ratings from the major rating agencies and are in a senior position in the capital structure of the deal. Of our total RMBS at December 31, 2010 and 2009, approximately $673 million and $897 million, respec-tively, relate to residential subprime credit, primarily supporting our
- guaranteed investment contracts. These are collateralized primarily by pools of individual, direct mortgage loans Ia majority of which were originated in 2006 and 2005), not other structured products such as collateralized debt obligations. In addition, of the total residential subprime credit exposure at December 31, 2010 and 2009, approxi-mately $343 million and $456 million, respectively, was insured by Monoline insurers (Monolines) on which we continue to place reliance.
The vast majority of our commercial mortgage-backed securities (CMBS) also have investment grade credit ratings from the major rating agencies and are in a senior position in the capital structure of the deal:
Our CMBS investments are collateralized by both diversified pools of mortgages that were originated for securitization (conduit CMBS}
and pools of large loans backed by high-quality properties (large loan CMBS), a majority of which were originated in 2006 and 2007.
Our asset-backed securities (ABS) portfolio is collateralized by a variety of diversified pools of assets such as student loans and credit cards, as well as large senior secured loans targeting high-quality, middle-market companies in a variety of industries. The vast majority of our ABS securities are in a senior position in the capital structure of the deal. In addition, substantially all of the securities that are below investment grade are in an unrealized gain position.
For ABS, including RMBS, we estimate the portion of loss attrib-utable to credit using a discounted cash flow model that considers estimates of cash flows generated from the underlying collateral.
Estimates of cash flows consider internal credit risk, interest rate and prepayment assumptions that incorporate management's best estimate of key assumptions, including default rates, loss severity and prepayment rates. For CMBS, we estimate the portion of loss attributable to credit by evaluating potential losses on each of the underlying loans in the security. Collateral cash flows are considered in the context of our position in the capital structure of the deal. Assumptions can vary widely depending upon the collateral type, geographic concentrations and vintage.
If there has been an adverse change in cash flows for RMBS, management considers credit enhancements such as monoline insurance (which are features of a specific security). In evaluating the overall creditworthiness of the Monoline, we use an analysis that is similar to the approach we use for corporate bonds, including an evaluation of the sufficiency of the Monoline's cash reserves and capital, ratings activity, whether the Monoline is in default or default appears imminent, and the potential for intervention by an insurer.
or other regulator.
During 2010, we recorded other-than-temporary impairments of $460 million, of which $253 million was recorded through earnings ($35 million relates to equity securities) and $207 million was recorded in accumulated other comprehensive income iAOCI).
At January 1, 2010, cumulative impairments recognized in earn-ings associated with debt securities still held were $340 million.
During 2010, we recognized first-time impairments of $164 million and incremental charges on previously impaired securities of
$38 million. These amounts included $41 million related to securi-ties that were subsequently sold.
During 2009, we recorded other-than-temporary impairments of $1,078 million, of which $753 million was recorded through earnings ($42 million relates to equity securities), and $325 million was recorded in AOCI.
During 2009, we recorded other-than-temporary impairments of $1,078 million, of which $33 million was reclassified to retained earnings at April 1, 2009, as a result of the amendments to ASC 320.
Subsequent to April 1, 2009, first-time and incremental credit impair-ments were $109 million and $257 million, respectively. Previous credit impairments related to securities sold were $124 million.
CONTRACTUAL MATURITIES OF GECS INVESTMENT IN AVAILABLE-FOR-SALE DEBT SECURITIES (EXCLUDING MORTGAGE-BACKED AND ASSET-BACKED SECURITIES)
Amortized Estimated (In millions) cost fair value Due in 2011
$ 3,072
$ 3,169 2012-2015 7,433 7,683 2016-2020 4,371 4,516 2021 and later 17,732 18,429
,We expect actual maturities to differ from contractual maturities because borrowers have the right to call or prepay certain obligations.
Supplemental information about gross realized gains and losses on available-for-sale investment securities follows.
(In millions) 2010 2009 2008
.GE Gains 4
Losses, including impairments (173)
(148)
Net (169)
(148)
GECS Gains 190 164 212 Losses, including impairments (281)
(637)
(1,472)
Net (91)
(473)
(1,260)
Total
$ (91)
$(642)
$(1,408)
Although we generally do not have the intent to sell any specific securities at the end of the period, in the ordinary course of manag-ing our investment securities portfolio, we may sell securities prior GE 2010 ANNUAL REPORT 85
NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS to their maturities for a variety of reasons, including diversification, credit quality, yield and liquidity requirements and the funding of claims and obligations to policyholders. In some of our bank sub-sidiaries, we maintain a certain level of purchases and sales volume principally of non-U.S. government debt securities. In these situa-tions, fair value approximates carrying value for these securities.
Proceeds from investment securities sales and early redemp-tions by issuers totaled $16,238 million, $7,823 million and
$3,942 million in 2010, 2009 and 2008, respectively, principally from the sales of short-term securities in our bank subsidiaries in 2010 and 2009 and securities that supported the guaranteed investment contract portfolio in 2008.
We recognized a pre-tax loss on trading securities of $7 million and pre-tax gains of $408 million and $108 million in 2010, 2009 and 2008, respectively. Investments in retained interests decreased
$291 million and $113 million during 2009 and 2008, respectively, reflecting changes in fair value. Effective January 1, 2010, with the adoption of ASU 2009-16 & 17, we no longer have any retained interests that are recorded at fair value through earnings.
Note 6.
GECS Financing Receivables and Allowance for Losses on Financing Receivables (In millions)
Loans, net of deferred income(b)
Investment in financing leases, At December 31, January 1, December 31.
2010 2 0 10 (a) 2009
$281,639
$321,589
$280,465 Note 4.
Current Receivables December 31 (In millions)
Technology Infrastructure Energy Infrastructure Home & Business Solutions Corporate items and Consolidated(a) 2010 2009
$ 8,158
$ 7,226 7,377 7,328 1,426 775 GE 2010 2009
$ 4,502
$ 4,110 5,349 5,641 240 209 eliminations 2,088 1,679 713 408 19,049 17,008 10,804 10,368 Less allowance for losses (428)
(550)
(421)
(550)
Total
$18,621
$16,458
$10,383
$ 9,818 net of deferred income 45,710 55,096 54,332 327,349 376,685 334,797 Less allowance for losses (8,072)
(9,556)
(7,856)
Financing receivables-net(c)
$319,277
$367,129
$326,941 ia) Reflects the effects of our adoption of ASU 2009-16 & 17 on January 1.2010.
(b) Excludes deferred income of $2,328 million and $2,338 million at December 31, 2010 and 2009, respectively.
(cl Financing receivables at December 31, 2010 and December 31, 2009 included
$1,503 million and $2,635 million, respectively, relating to loans that had been acquired in a transfer but have been subject to credit deterioration since origination per ASC 310, Receivobles.
GECS financing receivables include both loans and financing leases. Loans represent transactions in a variety of forms, includ-ing revolving charge and credit, mortgages, installment loans, intermediate-term loans and revolving loans secured by business assets. The portfolio includes loans carried at the principal amount on which finance charges are billed periodically, and loans carried at gross book value, which includes finance charges.
Investment in financing leases consists of direct financing and leveraged leases of aircraft, railroad rolling stock, autos, other transportation equipment, data processing equipment, medical equipment, commercial real estate and other manufacturing, power generation, and commercial equipment and facilities.
For federal income tax purposes, the leveraged leases and the majority of the direct financing leases are leases in which GECS depreciates the leased assets and is taxed upon the accrual of rental income. Certain direct financing leases are loans for federal income tax purposes. For these transactions, GECS is taxable only on the portion of each payment that constitutes interest, unless the interest is tax-exempt (e.g., certain obligations of state governments).
Investment in direct financing and leveraged leases repre-sents net unpaid rentals and estimated unguaranteed residual values of leased equipment, less related deferred income. GECS has no general obligation for principal and interest on notes and other instruments representing third-party participation related to leveraged leases; such notes and other instruments have not been included in liabilities but have been offset against the related rentals receivable. The GECS share of rentals receivable on leveraged leases is subordinate to the share of other participants who also have security interests in the leased equipment. For federal income tax purposes, GECS is entitled to deduct the interest expense accruing on non-recourse financing related to leveraged leases.
(a) Included GE industrial customer receivables factored through a GECS affiliate and reported as financing receivables by GECS. See Note 27.
GE current receivables balances at December 31, 2010 and 2009, before allowance for losses, included $8,134 million and $7,455 mil-lion, respectively, from sales of goods and services to customers, and $24 million and $37 million at December 31, 2010 and 2009, respectively, from transactions with associated companies.
GE current receivables of $193 million and $104 million at December 31, 2010 and 2009, respectively, arose from sales, principally of Aviation goods and services, on open account to various agencies of the U.S. government. About 5% of GE sales of goods and services were to the U.S. government in 2010, compared with 6% in 2009 and 5% in 2008.
Note 5.
Inventories December 31 (In millions) 2010 2009 GE Raw materials and work in process
$ 6,973
$ 7,581 Finished goods 4,435 4,105 Unbilled shipments 456
. 759 11,864 12,445 Less revaluation to LIFO (404)
(529) 11,460 11,916 GECS Finished goods 66 71 Total
$11,526
$11,987 86 GE 2010 ANNUAL REPORT
NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS NET INVESTMENT IN FINANCING LEASES December 31 (In millions)
Total minimum lease payments receivable Less principal and interest on third-party non-recourse debt Net rentals receivables Estimated unguaranteed residual value of leased assets Less deferred income Investment in financing leases, net of deferred income Less amounts to arrive at net investment Allowance for losses Deferred taxes Net investment in financing leases Total financing leases Direct financing leasesnal Leveraged leaseslbl 2010 2009 2010 2009 2010 2009
$53,677
$63,997
$41,534
$49,985
$12,143
$14,012 (8,110)
(9,660)
(8,110)
(9,660) 45,567 54,337 41,534 49,985 4,033 4,352 8,496 9,604 5,992 6,815 2,504 2,789 (8,353)
(9,609)
(6,616)
(7,630)
(1,737)
(1,979) 45,710 54,332 40,910 49,170 4,800 5,162 (402)
(654)
(384)
(534)
(18)
(120)
(6,168)
(6,210)
(2,266)
(2,485)
(3,902)
(3,725)
$39,140
$47,468
$38,260
$46,151 880
$ 1,317 la) Included $520 million and $599 million of initial direct costs on direct financing leases at December 31, 2010 and 2009, respectively.
(b) Included pre-tax income of $133 million and $164 million and income tax of $51 million and $64 million during 2010 and 2009, respectively. Net investment credits recognized on leveraged leases during 2010 and 2009 were insignificant.
CONTRACTUAL MATURITIES FINANCING RECEIVABLES-NET The following table displays our financing receivables balances.
Total Net rentals (In millions) loans receivable Due in 2011
$ 67,741
$13,978 2012 29,947 8,921 2013 22,877 6,961 2014 21,074 4,610 2015 15,280 3,043 2016 and later 73,296 8,054 230,215 45,567 Consumer revolving loans 51,424 Total
$281,639
$45,567 We expect actual maturities to differ from contractual maturities.
The following tables provide additional information about our financing receivables and related activity in the allowance for losses for our Commercial, Real Estate and Consumer portfolios.
(In millions)
COMMERCIAL CLLObI Americas Europe Asia Other Total CLL Energy Fina G ECAS (b)
December 31, January 1, December 31, 2010 2 0 1 0(a) 2009
$ 86,596
$ 99,666
$ 87,496 37,498 43,403 41,455 11,943 13,159 13,202 2,626 2,836 2,836 138,663 159,064 144,989 7,011 7,790 7,790 12,615 13,254 13,254 ncial Services Otheric) 1,788 2,614 2,614 Total Commercial financing receivables 160,077 182,722 168,647 REAL ESTATE Debt 30,249 36,257 36,565 Business properties 9,962 12,416 8,276 Total Real Estate financing receivables 40,211 48,673 44,841 CONSUMER(b)
Non-U.S. residential mortgages 45,536 54,921 54,921 Non-U.S. installment and revolving credit 20,368 23,443 23,443 U.S. installment and revolving credit 43,974 44,008 20,027 Non-U.S. auto 8,877 12,762 12,762 Other 8,306 10,156 10,156 Total Consumer financing receivables 127,061 145,290 121,309 Total financing receivables 327,349 376,685 334,797 Less allowance for losses (8,072)
(9,556)
(7,856)
Total financing receivables-net
$319,277
$367,129
$326,941 (a) Reflects the effects of our adoption of ASU 2009-16 & 17 on January 1, 2010.
(b) During the first quarter of 2010, we transferred the Transportation Financial Services business from GE Capital Aviation Services (GECAS) to CLL and the Consumer business in Italy from Consumer to CLL. Prior-period amounts were reclassified to conform to the current-period presentation.
(cI Primarily consisted of loans and financing leases in former consolidated, liquidating, securitization entities, which became wholly owned affiliates in December 2010.
GE 2010 ANNUAL REPORT 87
NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS ALLOWANCE FOR LOSSES ON FINANCING RECEIVABLES The following tables provide a roll-forward of our allowance for losses on financing receivables.
Balance at Adoption of Balance at Provision December 31, ASU 2009 January 1, charged to 2009 16 & 1 7(a) 2010 operations Balance at Gross December 31, Otherlb) write-offs'C)
Recoveries{c) 2010 (In millions)
COMMERCIAL CLL(d)
Americas Europe Asia
$1,179 66
$1,245
' $1,058
$ (10)
$ (1,136)
$ 130
$1,287 575 575 272 (40)
(440) 62 429 244 (10) 234 153 (6)
(181) 22 222 Other 11 11 (4) 1 (I) 7 Total CLL 2,009 56 2,065 1,479 (55)
(1,758) 214 1,945 Energy Financial Services 28 28 65 (72) 1 22 GECAS(d) 104 104 12
(- 96) 20 Other 34 34 32 (9) 1 58 Total Commercial 2,175 56 2,231 1,588 (55) 11,935) 216 2,045 REAL ESTATE Debt 1,358 (3) 1,355 764 9
(838) 2 1,292 Business properties 136 45 181
.146 (7)
(126) 2 196 Total Real Estate 1,494 42 1,536 910 2
(964) 4 1,488 CONSUMER (d Non-U.S. residential mortgages 926 926 272 (40)
(408) 78 828 Non-U.S. installment and revolving credit 1,116 1,116 1,053 (70)
(1,745) 591 945 U.S. installment and revolving credit 1,551 1,602 3,153 3,018 (6)
(4,300) 468 2,333 Non-U.S. auto 303 303 85 (60)
(324) 170 174 Other 291 291 265 7
(394) 90 259 Total Consumer 4,187 1,602 5,789 4,693 (169)
(7,171) 1,397 4,539 Total
$7,856
$1,700
$9,556
$7,191
$(222)
$(10,070)
$1,617
$8,072 (a) Reflects the effects of our adoption of ASU 2009-16 & 17 on January 1. 2010.
(b) Other primarily included the effects of currency exchange.
(c) Net write-offs (write-offs less recoveries) in certain portfolios may exceed the beginning allowance for lossesas our revolving credit portfolios turn over more than once per year or, in all portfolios, can reflect losses that are incurred subsequent to the beginning of the fiscal year due to information becoming available during the current year, which may identify further deterioration on existing financing receivables.
(d) During the first quarter of 2010, we transferred the Transportation Financial Services business from GECAS to CLL and the Consumer business in Italy from Consumer to CLL.
Prior-period amounts were reclassified to conform to the current-period presentation.
Balance at Provision Balance at January 1.
charged to Gross December 31.
(In millions) 2009 operations Other(a) write-offslb)
Recoveries(b) 2009 COMMERCIAL CLL(c)
Americas
$ 843
$ 1,399
$ (39)
$(1,117) 93
$1,179 Europe 311 625 (14)
(431) 84 575 Asia 163 257 3
(203) 24 244 Other 4
9 2
(4) 11 Total CLL 1,321 2,290 (48)
(0,755) 201 2,009 Energy Financial Services 58 33 4
(67) 28 GECASOtI 58 65 (3)
(16) 104 Other 28 29 (24) 1 34 Total Commercial 1,465 2,417 (47)
(1,862) 202 2,175 REAL ESTATE Debt 282 1,295 13 (232) 1,358 Business properties 19 147 (32) 2 136 Total Real Estate 301 1,442 13 (264) 2 1,494 CONSUMER(c}
Non-U.S. residential mortgages 346 909 86 (508) 93 926 Non-U.S. installment and revolving credit 1,010 1,751 43 (2,252) 564 1,116 U.S. installment and revolving credit 1,616 3,367 (975)
(2,612) 155 1,551 Non-U.S. auto 197 395 31 (530) 210 303 Other 225 346 44 (389) 65 291 Total Consumer 3,394 6,768 (771)
(6,291) 1,087 4,187 Total
$5,160
$10,627
$(805)
$(8,417)
$1,291
$7,856 (a) Other primarily included the effectsof securitization activity and currency exchange.
(b) Net write-offs (write-offs less recoveries) in certain portfolios may exceed the beginning allowance for losses as our revolving credit portfolios turn over more than once per year or, in all portfolios, can reflect losses that are incurred subsequent to the beginning of the fiscal year due to information becoming available during the current year.
which may identify further deterioration on existing financing receivables.
(c) During the first quarter of 2010, we transferred the Transportation Financial Services business from GECAS to CLL and the Consumer business in Italy from Consumer to CLL.
Prior-period amounts were reclassified to conform to the current-period presentation.
88 GE 2010 ANNUAL REPORT
NOTES TO CONSOUDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS Balance at
- Gross, December 31.
Balance at Provision January 1, charged to (In millions) 2008 operations Otherlal write-offslb)
RecoveriesbI 0
2008 COMMERCIAL CLL(C)
Americas
$ 471
$ 909 111
$ (728) 80
$ 843 Europe 256 344 (34)
(334) 79 311 Asia 226 152 34 (256) 7 163 Other 3
4 (3) 4 Total CLL 956 1,409 108 (1,318) 166 1,321 Energy Financial Services 19 36 3
58 GECAS (c) 8 51 (1) 58 Other 18 28 (1)
(18) 1 28 Total Commercial 1,001 1,524 110 (1,337) 167 1,465 REAL ESTATE Debt 158 121 9
(6) 282 Business properties 10 14 (6) 1 19 Total Real Estate 168 135 9
(12) 1 301 CONSUMER(c)
Non-U.S. residential mortgages 232 296 (40)
(210) 68 346 Non-U.S. installment and revolving credit 1,278 1,664 (409)
(2,392) 869 1,010 U.S. installment and revolving credit 937 3,050 (624)
(2,056) 309 1,616 Non-U.S. auto 298 335 (121)
(544) 229 197 Other 165 229 9
(247) 69 225 Total Consumer 2,910 5,574' (1,185)
(5,449) 1,544 3,394 Total
$4,079
$7,233
$(11066)
$(6,798)
$1,712
$5,160 la) Other primarily included the effects of securitization activity and currency exchange.
(b) Net write-offs (write-offs less recoveries) in certain portfolios may exceed the beginning allowance for losses as our revolving credit portfolios turn over more than once per year or, in all portfolios, can reflect losses that are incurred subsequent to the beginning of the fiscal year due to information becoming available during the current year, which may identify further deterioration on existing financing receivables.
(c) During the first quarter of 2010, we transferred the Transportation Financial Services business from GECAS to CLL and the Consumer business in Italy from Consumer to CLL.
Prior-period amounts were reclassified to conform to the current-period presentation.
See Note 23 for supplemental information about the credit quality of financing receivables and allowance for losses on financing receivables.
GE 2010 ANNUAL REPORT 89
NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS Note 7.
Property, Plant and Equipment Depreciable lives-new (in years)
Consolidated depreciation and amortization related to property, plant and equipment was $10,013 million, $10,619 million and
$11,481 million in 2010, 2009 and 2008, respectively.
Amortization of GECS equipment leased to others was 2010 2009
$6,786 million, $7,179 million and $8,173 million in 2010, 2009 and 2008, respectively. Noncancellable future rentals due from cus-tomers for equipment on operating leases at December 31, 2010, December 31 (Dollars in millions)
ORIGINAL COST GE Land and improvements Buildings, structures and related equipment Machinery and equipment Leasehold costs and manufacturing plant under construction 8-(a $
573 562 are as follows:
8-40 7,468 7,569 (In millions) 4-20 20,833 20,714 Due in 1-10 1,986 1,431 30,860 30,276 2011 2012 2013 2014 2015 2016 and later 5,846 4,686 3,840 2,964 9,170
$ 7,242 GECSIb)
Land and improvements, buildings, structures and related equipment 1-37(a) 3,523 5,713 Equipment leased to others Aircraft 19-21 45,674 42,634 Vehicles 1-23 17,216 21,589 Railroad rolling stock 5-50, 4,331 4,290 Marine shipping containers 3-30 2,748 2,727 Construction and manufacturing 1-30 2,586 2,759 All other 4-25 3,107 2,921 79,185 82,633 Total
$110,045
$112,909 NET CARRYING VALUE Total
$33,748 Note 8.
Goodwill and Other Intangible Assets December 31 (In millions) 2010 2009 GOODWILL GE
$36,880
$36,613 GECS 27,593 28,463 Total
$64,473
$65,076 GE Land and improvements Buildings, structures and related equipment Machinery and equipment Leasehold costs and manufacturing plant under construction 550 527 December 31 (In millionsl OTHER INTANGIBLE ASSETS 2010 2009 3,617 3,812 6,551 6,932 1,726 1,224 12,444 12,495 GE Intangible assets subject to amortization Indefinite-lived intangible assets
$ 7,984
$ 8,345 104 105 GECS(b)
Land and improvements, buildings, structures and related equipment 1,667 3,543 Equipment leased to others Aircraft(c) 34,665 32,983 Vehicles 9,077 11,519 Railroad rolling stock 2,960 2,887 Marine shipping containers 1,924 1,894 Construction and manufacturing 1,454 1,697 All other 2,023 1,952 53,770 56,475 Total
$ 66,214
$ 68,970 (a) Depreciable lives exclude land, (b) Included $1,571 million and $1,609 million of original cost of assets leased to GE with accumulated amortization of $531 million and $572 million at December 31, 2010 and 2009, respectively.
(c) The GECAS business of GE Capital recognized impairment losses of $438 million in 2010 and $127 million in 2009 recorded in the caption "Other costs and expenses" in the Statement of Earnings to reflect adjustments to fair value based on an evaluation of average current market values (obtained from third parties) of similar type and age aircraft, which are adjusted for the attributes of the specific aircraft under lease.
8,088 8,450 GECS Intangible assets subject to amortization 1,885 3,301 Total
$ 9,973
$11,751 90 GE 2010 ANNUAL REPORT
NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS Changes in goodwill balances follow.
2010 2009 Dispositions, Dispositions, currency currency Balance at exchange Balance at Balance at exchange Balance at (In millions)
January 1 Acquisitions and other December 31 January 1 Acquisitions and other December 31 Energy Infrastructure
$12,777
$ 53 63
$12,893
$12,563 3
211
$12,777 Technology Infrastructure 22,648 435 (118) 22,965 22,215 384 49 22,648 NBC Universal 18,973 26 (18,999)
GE Capital 28,463 19 (889) 27,593 25,358 3,004 101 28,463 Home & Business Solutions 1,188 (166) 1,022 1,166 1
21 1,188 Corporate Items and Eliminations 1,477 (1,477)
Total
$65,076
$507
$(1,110)
$64,473
$81,752
$3,418
$(20,094)
$65,076 Upon closing an acquisition, we estimate the fair values of assets and liabilities acquired and consolidate the acquisition as quickly as possible. Given the time it takes to obtain pertinent information to finalize the acquired company's balance sheet, then to adjust the acquired company's accounting policies, procedures, and books and records to our standards, it is often several quarters before we are able to finalize those initial fair value estimates.
Accordingly, it is not uncommon for our initial estimates to be subsequently revised.
Goodwill related to new acquisitions in 2010 was $507 million and included the acquisition of Clarient, Inc. ($425 million) at Technology Infrastructure. Goodwill balances decreased
$603 million during 2010, primarily as a result of the deconsoli-dation of Regency Energy Partners L.P. (Regency) at GE Capital
($557 million) and the stronger U.S. dollar ($260 millionl.
Goodwill related to new acquisitions in 2009 was $3,418 million and included acquisitions of Interbanca S.p.A. ($1,394 million) and BAC ($1,083 million) at GE Capital and Airfoils Technologies International-Singapore Pte. Ltd. (ATI-Singapore)l($342 million) at Technology Infrastructure, During 2009, the goodwill balance increased by $128 million related to acquisition accounting adjust-ments for prior-year acquisitions. The most significant of these adjustments was an increase of $180 million associated with the 2008 acquisition of CitiCapital at GE Capital, partially offset by a decrease of $141 million associated with the 2008 acquisition of Hydril Pressure Control by Energy Infrastructure. Also during 2009, goodwill balances decreased $20,094 million, primarily as a result of NBCU and our Security business being classified as held for sale
($19,001 million) and $1,077 million), respectively, by the decon-solidation of Penske Truck Leasing Co., L.P. (PTL)($634 million) at GE Capital and the disposition of 8 1% of GE Homeland Protection, Inc. ($423 million), partially offset by the weaker U.S. dollar
($1,666 million).
On May 26, 2010, we sold our general partnership interest in Regency, a midstream natural gas services provider, and retained a 21% limited partnership interest. This resulted in the deconsoli-dation of Regency and the remeasurement of our limited partnership interest to fair value. We recorded a pre-tax gain of
$119 million, which is reported in GECS revenues from services.
On June 25, 2009, we increased our ownership in BAC from 49.99% to 75% for a purchase price of $623 million following the terms of our 2006 investment agreement (BAC Investment Agreement) with the then controlling shareholder. At that time, we remeasured our previously held equity investment to fair value, resulting in a pre-tax gain of $343 million. This transaction required us to consolidate BAC, which was previously accounted for under the equity method.
In accordance with our stated plan to reduce GE Capital end-ing net investment, we exited this business during 2010, and completed the sale of BAC for $1,920 million in December 2010. In accordance with the terms of the BAC Investment Agreement and prior to completing the sale, we acquired the remaining 25%
interest in BAC for a purchase price of $633 million. As a result of the sale of our 100% ownership interest in BAC, we recognized an after-tax gain of $780 million in 2010, which was recorded in discontinued operations. Goodwill related to new acquisitions in 2009 includes $1,083 million related to BAC, which represents the difference between the amount of goodwill initially recorded in 2009 upon BAC consolidation ($1,605 million), and the amount of goodwill reclassified to discontinued operations based on a relative fair value allocation ($522 million), as required under ASC 350-20-35.
On March 20, 2009, we increased our ownership in ATI-Singapore from 49% to 100% and concurrently acquired from the same seller a controlling financial interest in certain affiliates. We remeasured our previous equity interests to fair value, resulting in a pre-tax gain of $254 million, which is reported in other income.
We test goodwill for impairment annually and more frequently if circumstances warrant. We determine fair values for each of the reporting units using an income approach. When available and appropriate, we use comparative market multiples to corroborate discounted cash flow results. For purposes of the income approach, fair value is determined based on the present value of estimated future cash flows, discounted at an appropriate risk-adjusted rate. We use our internal forecasts to estimate future cash flows and include an estimate of long-term future growth rates based on our most recent views of the long-term outlook for GE 2010 ANNUAL REPORT 91
NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS each business. Actual results may differ from those assumed in our forecasts. We derive our discount rates using a capital asset pricing model and analyzing published rates for industries relevant to our reporting units to estimate the cost of equity financing. We use discount rates that are commensurate with the risks and uncertainty inherent in the respective businesses and in our internally developed forecasts. Discount rates used in our report-ing unit valuations ranged from 9% to 14.5%. Valuations using the market approach reflect prices and other relevant observable information generated by market transactions involving compa-rable businesses.
Compared to the market approach, the income approach more closely aligns each reporting unit valuation to our business profile, including geographic markets served and product offerings.
Required rates of return, along with uncertainty inherent in the forecasts of future cash flows, are reflected in the selection of the discount rate. Equally important, under this approach, reason-ably likely scenarios and associated sensitivities can be developed for alternative future states that may not be reflected in an observ-able market price. A market approach allows for comparison to actual market transactions and multiples. It can be somewhat more limited in its application because the population of potential comparables is often limited to publicly-traded companies where the characteristics of the comparative business and ours can be significantly different, market data is usually not available for divisions within larger conglomerates or non-public subsidiaries that could otherwise qualify as comparable, and the specific circumstances surrounding a market transaction (e.g., synergies between the parties, terms and conditions of the transaction, etc.)
may be different or irrelevant with respect to our business. It can also be difficult, under certain market conditions, to identify orderly transactions between market participants in similar busi-nesses. We assess the valuation methodology based upon the relevance and availability of the data at the time we perform the valuation and weight the methodologies appropriately.
We performed our annual impairment test of goodwill for all of our reporting units in the third quarter using data as of July 1, 2010. The impairment test consists of two steps: in step one, the carrying value of the reporting unit is compared with its fair value; in step two, which is applied when the carrying value is more than its fair value, the amount of goodwill impairment, if any, is derived by deducting the fair value of the reporting unit's assets and liabilities from the fair value of its equity, and comparing that amount with the carrying amount of goodwill. In performing the valuations, we used cash flows that reflected management's forecasts and discount rates that included risk adjustments con-sistent with the current market conditions. Based on the results of our step one testing, the fair values of each of the GE Industrial reporting units and the CLL, Consumer, Energy Financial Services and GECAS reporting units exceeded their carrying values; therefore, the second step of the impairment test was not required to be performed and no goodwill impairment was recognized.
Our Real Estate reporting unit had a goodwill balance of
$1,089 million at December 31, 2010. As of July 1, 2010, the carry-ing amount exceeded the estimated fair value of our Real Estate reporting unit by approximately $3.2 billion. The estimated fair value of the Real Estate reporting unit is based on a number of assumptions about future business performance and investment, including loss estimates for the existing finance receivable and investment portfolio, new debt origination volume and margins, and anticipated stabilization of the real estate market allowing for sales of real estate investments at normalized margins. Our assumed discount rate was 12% and was derived by applying a capital asset pricing model and corroborated using equity analyst research reports and implied cost of equity based on forecasted price to earnings per share multiples for similar companies. Given the volatility and uncertainty in the current commercial real estate environment, there is uncertainty about a number of assumptions upon which the estimated fair value is based. Differ-ent loss estimates for the existing portfolio, changes in the new debt origination volume and margin assumptions, changes in the expected pace of the commercial real estate market recovery, or changes in the equity return expectation of market participants may result in changes in the estimated fair.value of the Real Estate reporting unit.
Based on the results of the step one testing, we performed the second step of the impairment test described above. Based on the results of the second step analysis for the Real Estate report-ing unit, the estimated implied fair value of goodwill exceeded the carrying value of goodwill by approximately $3.5 billion. Accord-ingly, no goodwill impairment was required. In the second step, unrealized losses in an entity's assets have the effect of increas-ing the estimated implied fair value of goodwill. The results of the second step analysis were attributable to several factors. The primary driver was the excess of the carrying value over the estimated fair value of our Real Estate equity investments, which approximated $6.3 billion at that time. Other drivers for the favor-able outcome include the unrealized losses in the Real Estate finance receivable portfolio and the fair value premium on the Real Estate reporting unit allocated debt. The results of the sec-ond step analysis are highly sensitive to these measurements, as well as the key assumptions used in determining the estimated fair value of the Real Estate reporting unit.
Estimating the fair value of reporting units requires the use of estimates and significant judgments that are based on a number of factors including actual operating results. If current conditions persist longer or deteriorate further than expected, it is reason-ably possible that the judgments and estimates described above could change in future periods.
92 GE 2010 ANNUAL REPORT
NOTES TO CONSOUDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS INTANGIBLE ASSETS SUBJECT TO AMORTIZATION Gross carrying Accumulated December 31 (In millions) amount amortization Net GE 2010 Customer-related
$ 4,386
$ (902)
$3,484 Patents, licenses and trademarks 4,778 (2,063) 2,715 Capitalized software 4,230 (2,449) 1,781 All other 45 (41) 4 Total
$13,439
$15,455)
$7,984 2009 Customer-related
$ 4,213
$ (702)
$3,511 Patents, licenses and trademarks 4,568 (1,716) 2,852 Capitalized software 4,366 (2,560) 1,806 All other 301 (125) 176 Total
$13,448
$(5.103)
$8,345 G ECS 2010 Customer-related
$ 1,112
$ (588) 524 Patents, licenses and trademarks 599 (532) 67 Capitalized software 2,035 (1,535)
S00 Lease valuations 1,646 (917) 729 Present value of future profits(a) 461 (461)
All other 333 (268) 65 Total
$ 6,186
$(4,301)
$1,885 2009 Customer-related
$ 1,687
$ (679)
$1,008 Patents, licenses and trademarks 594 (459) 135 Capitalized software 2,169 (1,565) 604 Lease valuations 1,754 (793) 961 Present value of future profits 921 (470) 451 All other 444 (3021 142 Total
$ 7,569
$(4,268)
$3,301 (a) Balance at December 31. 2010 reflects an adjustment of $423 million to the present value of future profits in our run-off insurance operation to reflect the effects that would have been recognized had the related unrealized investment securities holding gains and losses actually been realized in accordance with ASC 320-10-S99-2.
During 2010, we recorded additions to intangible assets subject to amortization of $834 million. The components of finite-lived intangible assets acquired during 2010 and their respect-ive weighted-average amortizable period are:$113 million-Customer-related (14.8 years); $92 million-Patents, licenses and trademarks (5.6 years); $585 million-Capitalized software (4.4 years); and $44 million-All other (15.0 years).
Consolidated amortization related to intangible assets subject to amortization was $1,749 million, $2,085 million and $2,071 mil-lion for 2010, 2009 and 2008, respectively. We estimate annual pre-tax amortization for intangible assets subject to amortization over the next five calendar years to be as follows: 2011-$856 mil-lion; 2012-$794 million; 2013-$733 million; 2014-$664 million; and 2015-$557 million.
Note 9.
All Other Assets December 31 (In millions) 2010 2009 GE Investments Associated companies
$ 2,092
$ 1,710 Other 535 454 2,627 2,164 Contract costs and estimated earnings (a) 8,061 7,742 Long-term receivables, including notes(b) 1,098 2,056 Derivative instruments 412 327 Other 5,256 4,808 17,454 17,097 G ECS Investments Real estate(c)(d) 31,555 36,957 Associated companies 25,662 25,374 Assets held for sale(e) 3,540 3,691 Cost method (d) 1,937 1,972 Other 2,251 1,984 64,945 69,978 Derivative instruments 7,077 7,679 Deferred borrowing costs(f) 1,982 2,559 Advances to suppliers 1,853 2,224 Deferred acquisition costs(g) 60 1,054 Other 3,323 3,846 79,240 87,340 ELIMINATIONS (352)
(1,151)
Total
$96,342
$103,286 (a) Contract costs and estimated earnings reflect revenues earned in excess of billings on our long-term contracts to construct technically complex equipment (such as power generation, aircraft engines and aeroderivative units) and long-term product maintenance or extended warranty arrangements.
Vb) Included loans to GECS of $856 million and $1,102 million at December 31, 2010 and 2009, respectively.
(c) GECS investments in real estate consisted principally of two categories: real estate held for investment and equity method investments. Both categories contained a wide range of properties including the following at December 31, 2010: office buildings (45%), apartment buildings (16%), industrial properties (11%), retail facilities (7%l, franchise properties (8%) and other (13%). At December 31, 2010, investments were located in the Americas (48%). Europe (28%) and Asia (24%1:
(d) The fair value of and unrealized loss on cost method investments in a continuous loss position for less than 12 months at December 31, 2010, were $396 million and
$55 million, respectively. The fair value of and unrealized loss on cost method investments in.a continuous loss position for 12 months or more at December 31, 2010, were $16 million and $2 million, respectively. The fair value of and unrealized loss on cost method investments in a continuous loss position for less than 12 months at December 31, 2009, were $423 million and $67 million, respectively.
The fair value of and unrealized loss on cost method investments in a continuous loss position for 12 months or more at December 31, 2009, were $48 million and
$13 million, respectively.
le) Assets were classified as held for sale on the date a decision was made to dispose of them through sale or other means. At December 31, 2010 and 2009, such assets consisted primarily of loans, aircraft, equipment and real estate properties, and were accounted for at the lower of carrying amount or estimated fair value less costs to sell. These amounts are net of valuation allowances of $115 million and
$145 million at December 31, 2010 and 2009, respectively.
If) Included $916 million and $1,642 million at December 31, 2010 and 2009, respectively, of unamortized fees related to our participation in the Temporary Liquidity Guarantee Program.
(g) Balance at December 31, 2010 reflects an adjustment of $860 million to deferred acquisition costs in our run-off insurance operation to reflect the effects that would have been recognized had the'related unrealized investment securities holding gains and losses actually been realized in accordance with ASC 320-10-S99-2.
GE 2010 ANNUAL REPORT 93
NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS Note 10.
Borrowings and Bank Deposits SHORT-TERM BORROWINGS December 31 (in millions)
GE Commercial paper Payable to banks Current portion of long-term borrowings Other 2010 2009 Average Average Amount ratelal Amount rate(a) 73 2.44 21 8.35 362 83 27 394 4.80 6.56 Total GE short-term borrowings 456 504 GECS Commercial paper U.S.
32,547 0.28 37,775 0.20 Non-U.S.
9,497 1.41 9,525 0.86 Current portion of long-term borrowings (bl(c)Id) 65,612 3.24 69,878 3.27 GE Interest Plus notes(e) 9,058 1.59 7,541 2.40 Other(d) 2,083 6,035 Total GECS short-term borrowings 118,797 130,754 ELIMINATIONS (1,294)
(1,389)
Total short-term borrowings
$117,959
$129,869 LONG-TERM BORROWINGS 2010 2009 Average Average Maturities Amount rate(a)
Amount rate(a}
December 31 (In millions)
GE Senior notes Payable to banks, principally U.S.
Other 2013-2017 8,971 2012-2016 25 660 5.11%
8,968 3.08 2,001 712 5.12%
2.96 Total GE long-term borrowings 9,656 11,681 GECS Senior unsecured notes(b)(c) 2012-2055 262,789 3.29 304,344 3.31 Subordinated notes(fl 2012-2037 2,575 5.48 2,686 5.77 Subordinated debentures(g) 2066-2067 7,298 6.63 7,647 6.48 Other d)(h) 11,745 10,752 Total GECS long-term borrowings 284,407 325,429 ELIMINATIONS (740)
(938)
Total long-term borrowings
$293,323
$336,172 NON-RECOURSE BORROWINGS OF CONSOLIDATED SECURITIZATION ENTITIES0i}
2011-2021
$ 30,060 2.88%
3,883 0.57%
BANK DEPOSITSWI)
$ 37,298
$ 33,519 TOTAL BORROWINGS AND BANK DEPOSITS
$478,640
$503,443 (a) Based on year-end balances and year-end local currency interest rates. Current portion of long-term debt included the effects of related fair value interest rate and currency hedges, if any, directly associated with the original debt issuance.
(b) GECC had issued and outstanding $53,495 million and $59,336 million of senior, unsecured debt that was guaranteed by the Federal Deposit Insurance Corporation (FDIC) under the Temporary Liquidity Guarantee Program at December 31, 2010 and 2009, respectively. Of the above amounts, $18,455 million and $5,841 million are included in current portion of long-term borrowings at December 31, 2010 and 2009, respectively.
(c) Included in total long-term borrowings were $2,395 million and $3,138 million of obligations to holders of GICs at December 31, 2010 and 2009, respectively. If the long-term credit rating of GECC were to fall below AA-/Aa3 or its short-term credit rating were to fall below A-1+/P-1, GECC could be required to provide up to approximately $2,300 million as of December 31, 2010, to repay holders of GICs.
(dl Included $11,135 million and $10,604 million of funding secured by real estate, aircraft and other collateral at December 31, 2010 and 2009, respectively, of which $4,671 million and $5,667 million is non-recourse to GECS at December 31, 2010 and 2009, respectively.
(e) Entirely variable denomination floating-rate demand notes.
(f) Included $417 million of subordinated notes guaranteed by GE at both December 31, 2010 and 2009.
(g) Subordinated debentures receive rating agency equity credit and were hedged at issuance to the U.S. dollar equivalent of $7,725 million.
Ih Included $1,984 million and $1,649 million of covered bonds at December 31, 2010 and 2009, respectively. If the short-term credit rating of GECC were reduced below A-1/P-1, GECC would be required to partially cash collateralize these bonds in an amount up to $764 million at December 31, 2010.
(i) Included at December 31, 2010 was $10,499 million of current portion of long-term borrowings and $19,561 million of long-term borrowings related to former QSPEs consolidated on January 1, 2010 upon our adoption of ASU 2009-16 & 17, previously consolidated liquidating securitization entities and other on-book securitization borrowings.
Included at December 31, 2009, was $2,424 million of commercial paper, $378 million of current portion of long-term borrowings and $1,081 million of long-term borrowings issued by consolidated liquidating securitization entities. See Note 24.
(j) Included $18,781 million and $15,848 million of deposits in non-U.S. banks at December 31, 2010 and 2009, respectively, and $11,329 million and $10,476 million of certificates of deposits distributed by brokers with maturities greater than one year at December 31, 2010 and 2009, respectively.
Additional information about borrowings and associated swaps can be found in Note 22.
94 GE 2010 ANNUAL REPORT
NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS LIQUIDITY is affected by debt maturities and our ability to repay or refinance such debt. Long-term debt maturities over the next five years follow.
tIn millions) 2011 2012 2013 2014 2015 GE 21 414
$ 5,033 24 25 GECS 65,6121al 83,299 35,004 29,619 21,755 la) Fixed and floating rate notes of $710 million contain put options with exercise dates in 2011, and which have final maturity beyond 2015.
Committed credit lines totaling $51.8 billion had been extended to us by 58 banks at year-end 2010. Availability of these lines is shared between GE and GECS with $10.6 billion and $51.8 billion available to GE and GECS, respectively. The GECS lines include
$35.6 billion of revolving credit agreements under which we can borrow funds for periods exceeding one year. Additionally,
$16.2 billion are 364-day lines that contain a term-out feature that allows GE or GECS to extend the borrowings for one year from the date of expiration of the lending agreement. We pay banks for credit facilities, but amounts were insignificant in each of the past three years.
Note 11.
GECS Investment Contracts, Insurance Liabilities and Insurance Annuity Benefits GECS investment contracts, insurance liabilities and insurance annuity benefits comprise mainly obligations to annuitants and policyholders in our run-off insurance operations and holders of guaranteed investment contracts.
December 31 (In millions) 2010 2009 Investment contracts
$ 3,726
$ 3,940 Guaranteed investment contracts 5,502 8,310 Total investment contracts 9,228 12,250 Life insurance benefitsla) 17,640 16,847 Unpaid claims and claims adjustment expenses 2,437 2,102 Unearned premiums 426 532 Universal life benefits 262 278 Total
$29,993
$32,009 (a) Life insurance benefits are accounted for mainly by a net-level-premium method using estimated yields generally ranging from 3.0% to 8.5% in both 2010 and 2009.
When insurance affiliates cede insurance to third parties, such as reinsurers, they are not relieved of their primary obligation to policyholders. Losses on ceded risks give rise to claims for recovery; we establish allowances for probable losses on such receivables from reinsurers as required. Reinsurance recoverables are included in the caption "Other GECS receivables" on our Statement of Financial Position, and amounted to $1,284 million and $1,188 million at December 31, 2010 and 2009, respectively.
We recognize reinsurance recoveries as a reduction of the Statement of Earnings caption "Investment contracts, insurance losses and insurance annuity benefits." Reinsurance recoveries were $174 million, $219 million and $221 million for the years ended December 31, 2010, 2009 and 2008, respectively.
Note 12.
Postretirement Benefit Plans Pension Benefits We sponsor a number of pension plans. Principal pension plans, together with affiliate and certain other pension plans (other pension plans) detailed in this note, represent about 99% of our total pension assets. We use a December 31 measurement date for our plans.
PRINCIPAL PENSION PLANS are the GE Pension Plan and the GE Supplementary Pension Plan.
The GE Pension Plan provides benefits to certain U.S. employ-ees based on the greater of a formula recognizing career earnings or a formula recognizing length of service and final average earnings. Certain benefit provisions are subject to collective bargaining. Effective January 1, 2011, salaried employees who commence service on or after that date will not be eligible to participate in the GE Pension Plan, but will participate in a defined contribution retirement plan.
The GE Supplementary Pension Plan is an unfunded plan providing supplementary retirement benefits primarily to higher-level, longer-service U.S. employees.
OTHER PENSION PLANS in 2010 included 33 U.S. and non-U.S.
pension plans with pension assets or obligations greater than
$50 million. These defined benefit plans provide benefits to employees based on formulas recognizing length of service and earnings.
PENSION PLAN PARTICIPANTS Principal Other pension pension December 31, 2010 Total plans plans Active employees 154,000 120,000 34,000 Vested former employees 230,000 190,000 40,000 Retirees and beneficiaries 256,000 230,000 26,000 Total 640,000 540,000 100,000 GE 2010 ANNUAL REPORT 95
NOTES TO CONSOUDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS COST OF PENSION PLANS lin millions)
Service cost for benefits earned Prior service cost amortization Expected return on plan assets Interest cost on benefit obligations Net actuarial loss amortization Pension plans cost Total 2010 2009 2008
$ 1,426
$ 1,906
$ 1,663 252 437 332 (4,857)
(4,943)
(4,850) 3,179 3,129 3,152 1,546 482 316
$ 1,546
$ 1,011 613 Principal pension plans 2010 2009 2008
$1,149
$1,609
$1,331 238 426(a) 321 (4,344)
(4,505)
(4,298) 2,693 2,669 2,653 1,336 348 237
$1,072
$ 547 244 Other pension plans 2010 2009 2008
$277
$297
$332 14 11 11 (513)
(438)
(552) 486 460 499 210 134 79
$474
$464
$369 (al In 2009. included a $103 million loss as a result of our agreement with Comcast Corporation to transfer the NBCU business to a newly formed entity in which we will own a 49% interest.
ACTUARIAL ASSUMPTIONS are described below. The actuarial assumptions at December 31 are used to measure the year-end benefit obligations and the pension costs for the subsequent year.
Principal pension plans Other pension plans (weighted averagel December 31 2010 2009 2008 2007 2010 2009 2008 2007 Discount rate 5.28%
5.78%
6.11%
6.34%
5.11%
5.31%
6.03%
5.65%
Compensation increases 4.25 4.20 4.20 5.00 4.44 4.56 4.47 4.50 Expected return on assets 8.00 8.50 8.50 8.50 7.25 7.29 7.41 7.51 To determine the expected long-term rate of return on pension plan assets, we consider current and expected asset allocations, as well as historical and expected returns on various categories of plan assets. In developing future return expectations for our principal benefit plans' assets, we evaluate general market trends as well as key elements of asset class returns such as expected earnings growth, yields and spreads. Based on our analysis of future expectations of asset performance, past return results, and our current and expected asset allocations, we have assumed an 8.0% long-term expected return on those assets for cost recogni-tion in 2011. This is a reduction from the 8.5% we had assumed in 2010, 2009 and 2008. For the principal pension plans, we apply our expected rate of return to a market-related value of assets, which stabilizes variability in the amounts to which we apply that expected return.
We amortize experience gains and losses as well as the effects of changes in actuarial assumptions and plan provisions over a period no longer than the average future service of employees.
FUNDING POLICY for the GE Pension Plan is to contribute amounts sufficient to meet minimum funding requirements as set forth in employee benefit and tax laws plus such additional amounts as we may determine to be appropriate. We have not made contri-butions to the GE Pension Plan since 1987 and will not make any such contributions in 2011. In 2011, we expect to pay approxi-mately $200 million for benefit payments under our GE Supplementary Pension Plan and administrative expenses of our principal pension plans and expect to contribute approximately
$670 million to other pension plans. In 2010, comparative amounts were $183 million and $573 million, respectively.
BENEFIT OBLIGATIONS are described in the following tables.
Accumulated and projected benefit obligations IABO and PBO) represent the obligations of a pension plan for past service as of the measurement date. ABO is the present value of benefits earned to date with benefits computed based on current com-pensation levels. PBO is ABO increased to reflect expected future compensation.
PROJECTED BENEFIT OBLIGATION Principal pension plans Other pension plans (In millions) 2010 2009 2010 2009 Balance at January 1
$48,117
$45,168
$9,597
$7,748 Service cost for benefits earned 1,149 1,609 277 297 Interest cost on benefit obligations 2,693 2,669 486 460 Participant contributions 166 167 33 35 Plan amendments 23 3
Actuarial loss (gain) 2,799(a) 1,331(a; (12) 1,113 Benefits paid (2,925)
(2,827)
(421)
(398)
Acquisitions (dispositions)-net 50 (219)
Exchange rate adjustments (126) 558 Balance at December 3 1 b)
$51,999
$48,117
$9,907
$9,597 (a) Principally associated with discount rate changes.
Ib) The P00 for the GE Supplementary Pension Plan, which is an unfunded plan, was
$4,430 million and $3,828 million at year-end 2010 and 2009, respectively.
ACCUMULATED BENEFIT OBLIGATION December 31 (In millions) 2010 2009 GE Pension Plan
$46,046
$42,917 GE Supplementary Pension Plan 3,296 2,901 Other pension plans 9,134 8,947 PLANS WITH ASSETS LESS THAN ABO December 31 (In millions) 2010 2009 Funded plans with assets less than ABO Plan assets
$51,286
$47,740 Accumulated benefit obligations 53,350 49,948 Projected benefit obligations 55,502 51,837 Unfunded plans(a)
Accumulated benefit obligations
$ 4,086
$ 3,725 Projected benefit obligations 5,247 4,675 (a) Primarily related to the GE Supplementary Pension Plan.
96 GE 2010 ANNUAL REPORT
NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS PLAN ASSETS The fair value of the classes of the pension plans' investments is presented below. The inputs and valuation techniques used to measure the fair value of the assets are consistently applied and described in Note 1.
FAIR VALUE OF PLAN ASSETS According to statute, the aggregate holdings of all qualifying employer securities le.g., GE common stock) and qualifying employer real property may not exceed 10% of the fair value of trust assets at the time of purchase. GE securities represented 3.6% and 3.3% of trust assets at year-end 2010 and 2009, respectively.
The GE Pension Plan has a broadly diversified portfolio of investments in equities, fixed income, private equities, real estate and hedge funds; these investments areboth U.S. and non-U.S. in nature. As of December 31, 2010, no one sector concentration of assets exceeded 15% of total GE Pension Plan assets.
The following tables present GE Pension Plan investments measured at fair value.
Principal pension plans Other pension plans (In millions)
'2010 2009 2010 2009 Balance at January 1
$42,097
$40,730
$6,919
$5,374 Actual gain on plan assets 5,280 3,859 749 935 Employer contributions 183 168 573 676 Participant contributions 166 167 33 35 Benefits paid (2,925)
(2,827)
(421)
(398)
Acquisitions Idispositionsl-net 41 (142)
Exchange rate adjustments (91) 439 Balance at December 31
$44,801
$42,097
$7,803
$6,919 ASSET ALLOCATION Other pension plans Principal pension plans
[weighted average) 2010 2010 2010 2010 Target Actual Target Actual allocation allocation allocation allocation Equity securities 34-74%(a) 49%(b) 56%
60%
Debt securities December 31, 2010 (In millions)
Level 1 EQUITY SECURITIES U.S. equity securities
$11,388 Non-U.S. equity securities 9,662 DEBT SECURITIES Fixed income and cash investment funds U.S. corporate(a)
Residential mortgage-backed U.S. government and federal agency Other debt securities(b)
PRIVATE EQUITIESIC)
REAL ESTATE(c)
OTHER INVESTMENTS(d)
TOTAL INVESTMENTS
$21,050 CASH AND OTHER TOTAL ASSETS Level 2 Level 3 Total 195
$11,583 801 10,463 2,712 2,377 1,225 3,192 1,578 53
$12,133 (including cash equivalents)
Private equities Real estate Other 10-40 5-15 4-14 1-14 26 13 8
4 31 1
3 9
30 2
3 5
6,.
3,:
1,1
$11,'
65 2,777 5
2,382 21 1,246 3,192 283 1,861 014 6,014 373 3,373 687 1,740 448
$44,631 170
$44,801 (a) Target allocations were 17-37% for both U.S. equity securities and non-U.S.
equity securities.
(b) Actual allocations were 26% for U.S. equity securities and 23% for non-U.S.
equity securities.
Plan fiduciaries of the GE Pension Plan set investment policies and strategies for the GE Pension Trust and oversee its investment allocation, which includes selecting investment managers, com-missioning periodic asset-liability studies and setting long-term strategic targets. Long-term strategic investment objectives include preserving the funded status of the plan and balancing risk and return. Target allocation percentages are established at an asset class level by plan fiduciaries. Target allocation ranges are guidelines, not limitations, and occasionally plan fiduciaries will approve allocations above or below a target range.
GE Pension Trust assets are invested subject to the following additional guidelines:
" Short-term securities must generally be rated A1/P1 or better, except for 15% of such securities that may be rated A2/P2 and other short-term securities as may be approved by the plan fiduciaries.
" Real estate investments may not exceed 25% of total assets.
" Investments in restricted securities (excluding real estate invest-ments) that are not freely tradable may not exceed 30% of total assets (actual was 18% of trust assets at December 31, 2010).
December 31, 2009 (In millions)
Level 1 Level 2 Level 3 Total EQUITY SECURITIES U.S. equity securities
$12,216 383
$12,599 Non-U.S. equity securities 8,120 323 8,443 DEBT SECURITIES Fixed income and cash investment funds 2,769 46 2,815 U.S. corporate(a) 2,945 6
2,951 Residential mortgage-backed 1,053 220 1,273 U.S. government and federal agency 2,564 2,564 Other debt securities (b) 1,527 231 1,758 PRIVATE EQUITIES(c) 5,339 5,339 REAL ESTATE (c) 2,775 2,775 OTHER INVESTMENTS(d) 1,537 1,537 TOTAL INVESTMENTS
$20,336
$11,564
$10,154
$42,054 CASH AND OTHER 43 TOTAL ASSETS
$42,097 (a) Primarily represented investment grade bonds of U.S. issuers from diverse industries.
(b) Primarily represented investments in non-U.S. corporate bonds and commercial mortgage-backed securities.
(c) Included direct investments and investment funds.
(d) Substantially all represented hedge fund investments.
GE 2010 ANNUAL REPORT 97
NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS The following tables present the changes in Level 3 investments for the GE Pension Plan.
CHANGES IN LEVEL 3 INVESTMENTS FOR THE YEAR ENDED DECEMBER 31, 2010 Net change in unrealized gains (losses) relating to investments still held at Purchases, Net realized/
issuances Transfers in and/or January 1, unrealized and out of December 31, December 31, (In rmillions) 2010 gains (losses) settlements Level 3 (a) 2010 2010t DEBT SECURITIES Fixed income and cash investment funds 46 16 3
65 15 U.S. corporate 6
7 (9) 1 5
1 Residential mortgage-backed 220 6
1211) 6 21 1
Other debt securities 231 17 41 (6) 283 15 PRIVATE EQUITIES 5,339 748 (73) 6,014 694 REAL ESTATE 2,775 381 217 3,373 251 OTHER INVESTMENTS 1,537 132 65 (47) 1,687 156
$10,154
$1,307
$ 33
$(46)
$11,448
$1,133
[bi (a) Transfers in and out of Level 3 are considered to occur at the beginning of the period.
(bi The net change in unrealized gains (losses) was included in the year-end asset value.
CHANGES IN LEVEL 3 INVESTMENTS FOR THE YEAR ENDED DECEMBER 31, 2009 Net change in unrealized gains (losses) relating to Purchases, Transfers investments Net realized/
issuances in and/or still held at January 1, unrealized and out of December 31, December 31, (In millions) 2009 gains (losses) settlements Level 3 (a) 2009 2 0 09(b)
EQUITY SECURITIES Non-U.S. equity securities 358 (81
$13501 DEBT SECURITIES Fixed income and cash investment funds 3
43 46 3
U.S. corporate 21 (1)
(12)
(2) 6 (7)
Residential mortgage-backed 64 15 124 17 220 (33)
Other debt securities 223 5
3 231 (23)
PRIVATE EQUITIES 4,893 88 358 5,339 23 REAL ESTATE 4,944 (2,225) 56 2,775 (2,407)
OTHER INVESTMENTS 1,613 192 (268) 1,537 (30)
$12,116
$(1,9311
$ (461
$15
$10,154 1
$(24741 (a) Transfers in and out of Level 3 are considered to occur at the beginning of the period.
(b) The net change in unrealized gains (losses) was included in the year-end asset value.
Other pension plans' assets were $7,803 million and $6,919 million at December 31, 2010 and 2009, respectively. Equity and debt securi-ties amounting to $6,938 million and $6,517 million represented approximately 90% and 95% of total investments at December 31, 2010 and 2009, respectively. The plans' investments were classified as 15% Level 1, 75% Level 2 and 10% Level'3 at December 31, 2010. The plans' investments were classified as 15% Level 1, 80% Level 2 and 5% Level 3 at December 31, 2009. The changes in Level 3 investments were insignificant for the years ended December 31, 2010 and 2009.
98 GE 2010 ANNUAL REPORT
NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS PENSION ASSET (LIABILITY)
COST OF PRINCIPAL RETIREE BENEFIT PLANS Principal pension plans Other pension plans December 31 (In millions) 2010 2009 2010 2009 Funded status(a)lb)
$(7,198)
$ (6,020)
$(2,104)
$(2,678)
Pension asset (liability) recorded in the Statement of Financial Position Pension asset
$ 202 98 Pension liabilities Due within one year(c)
(141)
(133)
(52)
(54)
Due after one year (7,057)
(5,887)
(2,254)
(2,722)
Net amount recognized
$ (7,198)
$(6,020)
$(2,104)
$(2,678)
Amounts recorded in shareowners' equity (unamortized)
Prior service cost
$ 1,075
$ 1,313 72 61 Net actuarial loss 18,603 18,076 1,772 2,230 Total
$19,678
$19,389
$1,844
$2,291 (a) Fair value of assets less PBO, as shown in the preceding tables.
hb)
The GE Pension Plan was underfunded by $2.8 billion and $2.2 billion at December 31, 2010 and 2009, respectively.
(c) For principal pension plans, represents the GE Supplementary Pension Plan liability.
In 2011, we estimate that we will amortize $195 million of prior service cost and $2,285 million of net actuarial loss for the principal pension plans from shareowners' equity into pension cost. For other pension plans, the estimated prior service cost and net actu-arial loss to be amortized in 2011 will be $15 million and $135 million, respectively. Comparable amortized amounts in 2010, respectively, were $238 million and $1,336 million for the principal pension plans and $14 million and $210 million for other pension plans.
ESTIMATED FUTURE BENEFIT PAYMENTS 2016-(In millions) 2011 2012 2013 2014 2015 2020 Principal pension plans
$2,960
$2,990
$3,025 $3,075
$3,075 $16,800 Other pension plans
$ 395
$ 410 $ 415 $ 425
$ 435 $ 2,340 Retiree Health and Life Benefits We sponsor a number of retiree health and life insurance benefit plans (retiree benefit plans). Principal retiree benefit plans are discussed below; other such plans are not significant individually or in the aggregate. We use a December 31 measurement date for our plans.
PRINCIPAL RETIREE BENEFIT PLANS provide health and life insurance benefits to certain employees who retire under the GE Pension Plan with 10 or more years of service. Eligible retirees share in the cost of healthcare benefits. These plans cover approximately 216,000 retirees and dependents.
(In millions) 2010 2009 2008 Service cost for benefits earned
$ 241
$ 442
$ 326 Prior service cost amortization (a) 631 836 673 Expected return on plan assets (116)
(129)
(131)
Interest cost on benefit obligations 699 709 750 Net actuarial gain amortization (a)
(22)
(225)
(49)
Retiree benefit plans costla)
$1,433
$1,633
$1,569 (a) In 2009, we recognized a $45 million loss as a result of our agreement with Comcast Corporation to transfer the NBCU business to a newly formed entity in which we will own a 49% interest. Prior service cost amortization increased by
$164 million and net actuarial gain amortization increased by $119 million as a result of this agreement.
ACTUARIAL ASSUMPTIONS are described below. The actuarial assumptions at December 31 are used to measure the year-end benefit obligations and the retiree benefit plan costs for the subsequent year.
December 31 Discount rate Compensation increases Expected return on assets Initial healthcare trend rate(b) 2010 5.15%
4.25 8.00 7.00 2009 5.67%
4.20 8.50 7.40 2008 6.15%
4.20 8.50 7.00 (c) 2007 6.31%(a) 5.00 8.50 9.10 (a) Weighted average discount rate of 6.34% was used for determination of costs in 2008.
(b) For 2010, ultimately declining to 6% for 2025 and thereafter.
(c) Includes benefits from new healthcare supplier contracts.
To determine the expected long-term rate of return on retiree life plan assets, we consider current and expected asset allocations, as well as historical and expected returns on various categories of plan assets. In developing future return expectations for retiree benefit plan assets, we evaluate general market trends as well as key elements of asset class returns such as expected earnings growth, yields and spreads. Based on our analysis of future expectations of asset performance, past return results, and our current and expected asset allocations, we have assumed an 8.0% long-term expected return on those assets for cost recogni-tion in 2011. This is a reduction from the 8.5% we had assumed in 2010, 2009 and 2008. We apply our expected rate of return to a market-related value of assets, which stabilizes variability in the amounts to which we apply that expected return.
We amortize experience gains and losses as well as the effects of changes in actuarial assumptions and plan provisions over a period no longer than the average future service of employees.
FUNDING POLICY. We fund retiree health benefits on a pay-as-you-go basis. We expect to contribute approximately $660 million in 2011 to fund such benefits. We fund retiree life insurance benefits at our discretion.
GE 2010 ANNUAL REPORT 99
NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS Changes in the accumulated postretirement benefit obligation for retiree benefit plans follow.
ACCUMULATED POSTRETIREMENT BENEFIT OBLIGATION (APBO)
(In millions) 2010 2009 Balance at January 1
$12,775.
$11,949 Service cost for benefits earned 241 442 Interest cost on benefit obligations 699 709 Participant contributions 55 50 Plan amendments (37)
Actuarial loss (gain)(a)lb)
(942) 504 Benefits paid (c)
(818)
(842)
Balance at December 3 1 (d)
$12,010
$12,775 Plan fiduciaries set investment policies and strategies for the trust and oversee its investment allocation, which includes selecting investment managers and setting long-term strategic targets. The primary long-term strategic investment objective is balancing investment risk and return. Target allocation percentages are established at an asset class level by plan fiduciaries. Target alloca-tion ranges are guidelines, not limitations, and occasionally plan fiduciaries will approve allocations above or below a target range.
Trust assets invested in short-term securities must generally be invested in securities rated A1/P1 or better, except for 15% of such securities that may be rated A2/P2 and other short-term securities as may be approved by the plan fiduciaries. According to statute, the aggregate holdings of all qualifying employer securities le.g., GE common stock) and qualifying employer real property may not exceed 10% of the fair value of trust assets at the time of purchase. GE securities represented 4.5% and 3.7%
of trust assets at year-end 2010 and 2009, respectively.
Retiree life plan assets were,$1,125 million and $1,138 million at December 31, 2010 and 2009, respectively. Equity and debt securities amounting to $942 million and $959 million represented approximately 78% and 80% of total investments at December 31, 2010 and 2009, respectively. The plans' investments were classi-fied as 39% Level 1, 39% Level 2 and 22% Level 3 at December 31, 2010. The plans' investments were classified as 42% Level 1, 37% Level 2 and 21% Level 3 at December 31, 2009. The changes in Level 3 investments were insignificant for the years ended December 31, 2010 and 2009.
(a) For 2010, included the effects of healthcare reform provisions on our Medicare-approved prescription drug plan.
(b) For 2009, included a $152 million reduction in APBO as a result of our agreement with Comcast Corporation to transfer the NBCU business to a newly formed entity in which we will own a 49% interest.
1c) Net of Medicare Part D subsidy of $72 million and $83 million in 2010 and 2009, respectively.
1d) The APBO for the retiree health plans was $9,566 million and $10,481 million at year-end 2010 and 2009, respectively.
A one percentage point change'in the assumed healthcare cost trend rate would have the following effects.
(In millionsl APBO at December 31, 2010 Service and interest costs in 2010 1% increase 1% decrease
$1,012
$(858) 91 (76)
PLAN ASSETS The fair value of the classes of retiree benefit plans' investments is presented below. The inputs and valuation techniques used to measure the fair value of assets are consistently applied and described in Note 1.
FAIR VALUE OF PLAN ASSETS (in millions) 2010 2009 Balance at January 1
$1,138
$1,175 Actual gain on plan assets 139 111 Employer contributions 611 644 Participant contributions 55 50 Benefits paid (a)
(818)
(842)
Balance at December 31
$1,125
$1,138 (a) Net of Medicare Part D subsidy.
ASSET ALLOCATION 2010 2010 Target Actual December 31 allocation allocation RETIREE BENEFIT ASSET (LIABILITY)
December 31 (In millions) 2010 2009 Funded statusla)
$(10,885)
$(11,637)
Liability recorded in the Statement of Financial Position Retiree health plans Due within one year (644)
(691)
Due after one year (8,922)
(9,790)
Retiree life plans (1,319)
(1,156)
Net liability recognized
$(10,885)
$(11,637)
Amounts recorded in shareowners' equity (unamortized)
Prior service cost
$ 3,523
$ 4,154 Net actuarial loss (gain)
(671) 272 Total
$ 2,852
$ 4,426 (a) Fair value of assets less APEO, as shown in the preceding tables.
In 2011, we estimate that we will amortize $630 million of prior service cost and $110 million of net actuarial gain from shareown-ers' equity into retiree benefit plans cost. Comparable amortized amounts in 2010 were $631 million of prior service cost and Equity securities Debt securities (including cash equivalents)
Private equities Real estate Other 37-77%(al 44 %(b) $22 million of net actuarial gains.
11-41 34 3-13 13 ESTIMATED FUTURE BENEFIT PAYMENTS 2-12 5
0-10 4
2016-(a) Target allocations were 19-39% for U.S. equity securities and 18-38% for non-U.S.
equity securities.
hi Actual allocations were 25% for U.S. equity securities and 19% for non-U.S.
equity securities.
(In millions) 2011 2012 2013 2014 2015 2020 Gross
$845
$840
$840
$840
$845 $4,255 Expected Medicare Part D subsidy 5
5 5
5 5
20 Net
$840
$835
$835
$835
$840 $4,235 2016-100 GE 2010 ANNUAL REPORT
NOTES TO CONSOUDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS Postretirement Benefit 2010 COST OF POSTRETII OTHER COMPREHENSIVE (In millions)
Cost of postretirement benefit plans Changes in other comprehensive income Net actuarial loss (gain) current year Prior service cost (credi current year t Plans Phase 2 to assess the potential scope and duration of Phase 2, as well as operational and engineering changes that could be REMENT BENEFIT PLANS-AND CHANGES IN required. Based on this review and our best professional engineer-INCOME ing judgment, we increased our reserve for the probable and Total Principal Other Retiree estimable costs for completing the Hudson River dredging project postretirement pension pension benefit by $845 million in the fourth quarter of 2010.
benefit plans plans plans plans Uncertainties about the status of laws, regulations, technology
$ 2,979
$1,072
$474
$1,433 and information related to individual sites make it difficult to develop a meaningful estimate of the reasonably possible aggregate environmental remediation exposure; these costs could differ 652 1,863 (2461 (9651 from our current estimates. Total reserves related to environmen-tU-tal remediation, including asbestos claims, were $3,510 million 23 23 at December 31, 2010.
Prior service cost amortization (8831 (238)
(14)
(631)
Net actuarial gain (loss) amortization (1,524)
(1,336)
(210) 22 Total changes in other comprehensive income (1,732) 289 (447)
(1,574)
Cost of postretirement benefit plans and changes in other comprehensive income
$1,247
$1,361
$ 27
$ (1411 Note 13.
All Other Liabilities This caption includes liabilities for various items including non-current compensation and benefits, deferred income, interest on tax liabilities, unrecognized tax benefits, environmental remedia-tion, asset retirement obligations, derivative instruments, product warranties and a variety of sundry items.
Accruals for non-current compensation and benefits amounted to $25,356 million and $24,921 million at December 31, 2010 and 2009, respectively. These amounts include postretire-ment benefits, pension accruals, and other compensation and benefit accruals such as deferred incentive compensation.
We are involved in numerous remediation actions to clean up hazardous wastes as required by federal and state laws. Liabilities for remediation costs exclude possible insurance recoveries and, when dates and amounts of such costs are not known, are not dis-counted. When there appears to be a range of possible costs with equal likelihood, liabilities are based on the low end of such range.
In 2006, we entered into a consent decree with the Environ-mental Protection Agency (EPA) to dredge PCB-containing sediment from the upper Hudson River. The consent decree provided that the dredging would be performed in two phases. Phase 1 was completed in May through November of 2009. Between Phase 1 and Phase 2 there was an intervening peer review by an indepen-dent panel of national experts. The panel evaluated the perfor-mance of Phase 1 dredging operations with respect to Phase 1 Engineering Performance Standards and recommended proposed changes to the standards. On December 17, 2010, EPA issued its decisions setting forth the final performance standards for Phase 2 of the dredging project, incorporating aspects of the recommen-dations from the independent peer review panel and from GE. In December 2010, we agreed with EPA to perform Phase 2 of the project in accordance with the final performance standards set by EPA. We have reviewed EPA's final performance standards for Note 14.
Income Taxes PROVISION FOR INCOME TAXES (In millions) 2010 2009 2008 GE Current tax expense
$ 2,401
$3,199
$ 3,844 Deferred tax expense (benefit) from temporary differences (377)
(460)
(417) 2,024 2,739 3,427 GECS Current tax expense (benefit)
(2,397)
(1,554)
(1,460)
Deferred tax expense (benefit) from temporary differences 1,423 (2,333)
(865)
(974)
(3,887)
(2,325)
CONSOLIDATED Current tax expense 4
1,645 2,384 Deferred tax expense (benefit) from temporary differences 1,046 12,793)
(1,282)
Total
$1,050
$(1,148)
$1,102 GE and GECS file a consolidated U.S. federal income tax return.
This enables GE to use GECS tax deductions and credits to reduce the tax that otherwise would have been payable by GE. The GECS effective tax rate for each period reflects the benefit of these tax reductions in the consolidated return. GE makes cash payments to GECS for these tax reductions at the time GE's tax payments are due. The effect of GECS on the amount of the consolidated tax liability from the formation of the NBCU joint venture will be settled in cash when it otherwise would have reduced the liability of the group absent the tax on formation.
Consolidated U.S. earnings (loss) from continuing operations before income taxes were $5,078 million in 2010, $(212) million in 2009 and $2,956 million in 2008. The corresponding amounts for non-U.S.-based operations were $9,130 million in 2010,
$10,207 million in 2009 and $16,814 million in 2008.
Consolidated current tax expense includes amounts appli-cable to U.S. federal income taxes of a benefit of $3,253 million,
$833 million and $651 million in 2010,2009 and 2008, respec-tively, related to the benefit from GECS deductions and credits in excess of GE's current U.S. tax expense. Consolidated current tax expense amounts applicable to non-U.S.jurisdictions were
$3,258 million, $2,385 million and $3,027 million in 2010, 2009 and 2008, respectively. Consolidated deferred taxes related to U.S.
GE 2010 ANNUAL REPORT 101
NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS federal income taxes were an expense of $2,099 million in 2010 and a benefit of $2,501 million and $836 million in 2009 and 2008, respectively, and amounts applicable to non-U.S.jurisdictions of a benefit of $1,167 million, $264 million and $499 million in 2010, 2009 and 2008, respectively.
Deferred income tax balances reflect the effects of temporary differences between the carrying amounts of assets and liabilities and their tax bases, as well as from net operating loss and tax credit carryforwards, and are stated at enacted tax rates expected to be in effect when taxes are actually paid or recovered. Deferred income tax assets represent amounts available to reduce income taxes payable on taxable income in future years. We evaluate the recoverability of these future tax deductions and credits by assessing the adequacy of future expected taxable income from all sources, including reversal of taxable temporary differences, fore-casted operating earnings and available tax planning strategies. To the extent we do not consider it more likely than not that a deferred tax asset will be recovered, a valuation allowance is established.
Our businesses are subject to regulation under a wide variety of U.S. federal, state and foreign tax laws, regulations and policies.
Changes to these laws or regulations may affect our tax liability, return on investments and business operations. For example, GE's effective tax rate is reduced because active business income earned and indefinitely reinvested outside the United States is taxed at less than the U.S. rate. A significant portion of this reduc-tion depends upon a provision of U.S. tax law that defers the imposition of U.S. tax on certain active financial services income until that income is repatriated to thý United States as a dividend.
This provision is consistent with international tax norms and permits U.S. financial services companies to compete more effec-tively with foreign banks and other foreign financial institutions in global markets. This provision, which expires at the end of 2011, has been scheduled to expire and has been extended by Congress on six previous occasions, including in December of 2010, but there can be no assurance that it will continue to be extended. In the event the provision is not extended after 2011, the current U.S. tax imposed on active financial services income earned outside the United States would increase, making it more difficult for U.S. financial services companies to compete in global markets. If this provision is not extended, we expect our effective tax rate to increase significantly after 2012.
We have not provided U.S. deferred taxes on cumulative earnings of non-U.S. affiliates and associated companies that have been reinvested indefinitely. These earnings relate to ongo-ing operations and, at December 31, 2010, were approximately
$94 billion. Most of these earnings have been reinvested in active non-U.S. business operations and we do not intend to repatriate these earnings to fund U.S. operations. Because of the availability of U.S. foreign tax credits, it is not practicable to determine the U.S. federal income tax liability that would be payable if such earnings were not reinvested indefinitely. Deferred taxes are provided for earnings of non-U.S. affiliates and associated compa-nies when we plan to remit those earnings.
During 2009, following the change in our external credit rat-ings, funding actions taken and review of our operations, liquidity and funding, we determined that undistributed prior-year earnings of non-U.S. subsidiaries of GECS, on which we had previously provided deferred U.S. taxes, would be indefinitely reinvested outside the U.S. This change increased the amount of prior-year earnings indefinitely reinvested outside the U.S. by approximately
$2 billion, resulting in an income tax benefit of $700 million in 2009.
During 2008, because the use of foreign tax credits no longer required the repatriation of prior-year earnings, we increased the amount of prior-year earnings that were indefinitely reinvested outside the U.S. by approximately $1 billion, resulting in an income tax benefit of $350 million.
Annually, we file over 6,400 income tax returns in over 250 global taxing jurisdictions. We are under examination or engaged in tax litigation in many of these jurisdictions. During 2010, the IRS completed the audit of our consolidated U.S. income tax returns for 2003-2005. At December 31, 2010, the IRS was auditing our consolidated U.S. income tax returns for 2006-2007. In addition, certain other U.S. tax deficiency issues and refund claims for previous years were unresolved. The IRS has disallowed the tax loss on our 2003 disposition of ERC Life Reinsurance Corporation.
We expect to contest the disallowance of this loss. It is reasonably possible that the 2006-2007 U.S. audit cycle will be completed during the next 12 months, which could result in a decrease in our balance of "unrecognized tax benefits"-that is, the aggregate tax effect of differences between tax return positions and the ben-efits recognized in our financial statements. We believe that there are no other jurisdictions in which the outcome of unresolved issues or claims is likely to be material to our results of operations, financial position or cash flows. We further believe that we have made adequate provision for all income tax uncertainties.
Resolution of audit matters, including the IRS audit of our consoli-dated U.S. income tax returns for 2003-2005, reduced our 2010 consolidated effective tax rate by 5.9 percentage points.
The balance of unrecognized tax benefits, the amount of related interest and penalties we have provided and what we.
believe to be the range of reasonably possible changes in the next 12 months, were:
December 31 (In millions) 2010 2009 Unrecognized tax benefits
$6,139
$7,251 Portion that, if recognized, would reduce tax expense and effective tax rate(a) 4,114 4,918 Accrued interest on unrecognized tax benefits 1,200 1,369 Accrued penalties on unrecognized tax benefits 109 69 Reasonably possible reduction to the balance of unrecognized tax benefits in succeeding 12 months.
0-1,600 0-1,800 Portion that, if recognized, would reduce tax expense and effective tax rate(a) 0-650 0-1,400 (a) Some portion of such reduction might be reported as discontinued operations.
A reconciliation of the beginning and ending amounts of unrecog-nized tax benefits is as follows:
(in millions) 2010 2009 Balance at January 1
$ 7,251
$6,692 Additions for tax positions of the current year 316 695 Additions for tax positions of prior years 596 289 Reductions for tax positions of prior years (1,788)
(229)
Settlements with tax authorities (152)
(146)
Expiration of the statute of limitations (84)
(50)
Balance at December 31
$6,139
$7,251 102 GE 2010 ANNUAL REPORT
NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS We classify interest on tax deficiencies as interest expense; we classify income tax penalties as provision for income taxes. For the years ended December 31, 2010, 2009 and 2008, $75 million of interest income and $172 million and $268 million of interest expense, respectively, and $5 million, $14 million and $19 million of tax expenses related to penalties, respectively, were recognized in the Statement of Earnings.
A reconciliation of the U.S. federal statutory income tax rate to the actual income tax rate is provided below.
RECONCILIATION OF U.S. FEDERAL STATUTORY INCOME TAX RATE TO ACTUAL INCOME TAX RATE Consolidated GE GECS 2010 2009 2008 2010 2009 2008 2010 2009 2008 U.S. federal statutory income tax rate 35.0%
35.0%
35.0%
35.0%
35.0%
35.0%
35.0%
35.0%
35.0%
Increase (reduction) in rate resulting from inclusion of after-tax earnings of GECS in before-tax earnings of GE (7.2)
(3.3)
(12.3)
Tax on global activities including exportsla)lbl (19.7)
(39.6)
(25.8)
(10.7)
(10.91 (5.2)
(54.1) 96.0 (70.7)
U.S. business credits (4.4) 14.5)
(1.4)
(2.2)
(1.0)
(0.3)
(13.4) 12.4 (3.7)
All other-net 13.5)
(2.4)
(2.2)
(1.6)
(1.5)
(12.3) 8.6 (2.0)
(27.6)
(46.5)
(29.4)
(21.7)
(15.2)
(19.3)
(79.8) 117.0 (76.4)
Actual income tax rate 7.4%
(11.5)%
5.6%
13.3%
19.8%
15.7%
144.8)%
152.0%
(41.4)%
(a) 2009 included (7.0)% and 27.4% from indefinite reinvestment of prior-year earnings for consolidated and GECS respectively.
Vb) 2008 included (1.80% and (6.2)% from indefinite reinvestment of prior-year earnings for consolidated and GECS, respectively.
DEFERRED INCOME TAXES Aggregate deferred income tax amounts are summarized below.
Principal components of our net liability (asset) representing deferred income tax balances are as follows:
December 31 (in millions) 2010 2009 December 31 fIn millions)
$(14,843)
$(14945)
Intangible assets (12,915)
(11,008)
Contract costs and estimated earnings (27,758)
(25,953)
Depreciation LIABILITIES GE 10,606 10,325 GECS 19,992 17,709 30,598 28,034 Net deferred income tax liability
$ 2,840
$ 2,081 Investment in subsidiaries Provision for expenses(a)
Retiree insurance plans Non-U.S. loss carryforwards(bl Other-net
$ 2,772
$2,782 2,671 2,540 951 1,223 1,934 1,959 (8,510)
(7,843)
(3,814)
(4,110)
(1,115)
(1,056) 874 (115)
(4,237) 1(4,620)
GECS Financing leases Operating leases Investment in global subsidiaries Intangible assets Allowance for losses Cash flow hedges Net unrealized losses on securities Non-U.S. loss carryforwards(bl Other-net 6,168 6,210 4,812 5,557 1,406 342 1,567 1,568 (2,822)
(3,052)
(612)
(818)
(276)
(193)
(2,320)
(1,2441 (846)
(1,669) 7,077 6,701
$2,840
$2,081 Net deferred income tax liability (a) Represented the tax effects of temporary differences related to expense accruals for a wide variety of items, such as employee compensation and benefits, pension plan liabilities, interest on tax liabilities, product warranties and other sundry items that are not currently deductible.
(bI Net of valuation allowances of $902 million and $835 million for GE and
$419 million and $344 million for GECS. for 2010 and 2009, respectively. Of the net deferred tax asset as of December 31, 2010, of $3,435 million, $56 million relates to net operating loss carryforwards that expire in various years ending from December 31, 2011. through December 31, 2013; $301 million relates to net operating losses that expire in various years ending from December 31, 2014, through December 31, 2025; and $3,078 million relates.to net operating loss carryforwards that may be carried forward indefinitely.
GE 2010 ANNUAL REPORT 103
NOTES TO CONSOUDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS Note 15.
Shareowners' Equity (In millions) 2010 2009 2008 PREFERRED STOCK ISSUED(a)(b)(c)
COMMON STOCK ISSUED(a)Ib) 702 702 702 ACCUMULATED OTHER COMPREHENSIVE INCOME Balance at January 1 Wd)
$ (15,530)
$ (21,853)
$, 8,324 Investment securities-net of deferred taxes of $72, $1,001 and $(2,528)1e)
(43) 2,678 (3,813)
Currency translation adjustments-net of deferred taxes of $3,742, $(611) and $4,082 (3,879) 4,174 (10,890)
Cash flow hedges-net of deferred taxes of $(515), $933 and-$(2,307)
(603) 986 (4,907)
Benefit plans-net of deferred taxes of $572, $15) and $(7,379) f 1,079 (1,804)
(13,288)
Reclassification adjustments Investment securities-net of deferred taxes of $32, $494 and $734 59 (19) 595 Currency translation adjustments 5
(39)
(117)
Cash flow hedges-net of deferred taxes of $706, $428 and $620 1,057 612 2,243 Balance at December 31
$ (17,855)
$ 115,265)
$ (21,853)
OTHER CAPITAL Balance at January 1
$ 37,729
$ 40,390
$ 26,100 Common stock issuance(b) 11,972 Preferred stock and warrant issuance b) 2,965 Gains (losses) on treasury stock dispositions and other(lb (839)
(2,661)
(647)
Balance at December 31
$ 36,890
$ 37,729
$ 40,390 RETAINED EARNINGS Balance at January 1(g)
$124,655
$122,185
$117,362 Net earnings attributable to the Company 11,644 11,025 17,410 Dividends(b)(h)
(5,212)
(6,785)
(12,649)
Other(b)(i) 50 (62)
Balance at December 31
$131,137
$126,363
$122,123 COMMON STOCK HELD IN TREASURY Balance at January 1
$ (32,238)
$ (36,697)
$ (36,896)
Purchaseslb)
(1,890)
(214)
(3,508)
Dispositions(b) 2,190 4,673 3,707 Balance at December 31
$ (31,938)
$ (32,238)
$ (36,697)
TOTAL EQUITY GE shareowners' equity balance at December 31
$118,936
$117,291
$104,665 Noncontrolling interests balance at December 31 5,262 7,845 8,947 Total equity balance at December 31
$124,198
$125,136
$113,612 (a) Additions resulting from issuances in 2008 were inconsequential for preferred stock and $33 million for common stock.
(b) Total dividends and other transactions with shareowners, inclusive of additions to par value discussed in note (a), decreased equity by $(5,701) million in 2010, decreased equity by $(5,049) million in 2009 and increased equity by $1,873 million in 2008.
(c) GE has 50 million authorized shares of preferred stock ($1.00 par value) and has issued 30 thousand shares as of December 31, 2010.
(d) The 2010 opening balance was adjusted as of January 1, 2010, for the cumulative effect of changes in accounting principles of $265 million related to the adoption of ASU 2009-16 & 17.
(e) Includes adjustments of $1,171 million as of December 31, 2010 to deferred acquisition costs, present value of future profits, and investment contracts, insurance liabilities and insurance annuity benefits in our run-off insurance operation to reflect the effects that would have been recognized had the related unrealized investment securities holding gains and losses actually been realized in accordance with ASC 320-10-S99-2.
(f) For 2010, included $(3) million of prior service costs for plan amendments, $513 million of amortization of prior service costs, $(487) million of gains losses) arising during the year and $1,056 million of amortization of gains (Ilosses)-net of deferred taxes of $1 million, $346 million, $(261) million and $486 million, respectively. For 2009, included
$(9) million of prior service costs for plan amendments, $814 million of amortization of prior service costs, $(2,793) million of gains (losses) arising during the year and
$184 million of amortization of gains Ilosses)-net of deferred taxes of $(10) million, $434 million, $(528) million and $99 million, respectively. For 2008, included $(43) million of prior service costs for plan amendments, $534 million of amortization of prior service costs, $(13,980) million of gains flosses) arising during the year and $201 million of amortization of gains (losses)-net of deferred taxes of $(24) million, $441 million, $(7,893) million and $97 million, respectively.
(g) The 2010 opening balance was adjusted as of January 1, 2010, for the cumulative effect of changes in accounting principles of $1,708 million related to the adoption of ASU 2009-16 & 17. The 2009 opening balance was adjusted as of April 1, 2009, for the cumulative effect of changes in accounting principles of $62 million related to adopting amendments on impairment guidance in ASC 320, Investments-Debt ond Equity Securities. The cumulative effect of adopting ASC 825, Financial Instruments, at January 1, 2008, was insignificant.
(h) Included $300 million, $300 million and $75 million of dividends on preferred stock in 2010, 2009 and 2008, respectively.
Ii) Included the effects of accretion of redeemable securities to their redemption value of $38 million and $(62) million in 2010 and 2009, respectively.
104 GE 2010 ANNUAL REPORT
NOTES TO CONSOUDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS SHARES OF GE PREFERRED STOCK On October 16, 2008, we issued 30,000 shares of 10% cumulative perpetual preferred stock (par value $1.00 per share) having an aggregate liquidation value of $3.0 billion, and warrants to pur-chase 134,831;460 shares of common stock (par value $0.06 per share) for aggregate proceeds of $3.0 billion in cash. The proceeds were allocated to the preferred shares ($2.5 billion) and the war-rants ($0.5 billion) on a relative fair value basis and recorded in other capital. The preferred stock is redeemable at our option three years after issuance at a price of 110% of liquidation value plus accrued and unpaid dividends. The warrants are exercisable for five years at an exercise price of $22.25 per share of common stock and are settled through physical share issuance. Upon redemption of the preferred shares, the difference between the redemption amount and the carrying amount of the preferred stock will be recorded as a reduction of retained earnings and considered a deemed dividend for purposes of computing earn-ings per share.
SHARES OF GE COMMON STOCK On September 25, 2008, we suspended our three-year, $15 billion share repurchase program, which was initiated in December 2007.
On July 23, 2010, we extended the program, which would have otherwise expired on December 31, 2010, through 2013 and we resumed purchases under the program in the third quarter of 2010. Under this program, on a book basis, we repurchased 111.2 million shares for a total of $1,814 million during 2010.
On October 7, 2008, GE completed an offering of 547.8 million shares of common stock at a price of $22.25 per share.
GE has 13.2 billion authorized shares of common stock
($0.06 par value).
Common shares issued and outstanding are summarized in the following table.
December 31 (In thousands) 2010 2009 2008 Issued 11,693,841 11,693,833 11,693,829 In treasury (1,078,465)
(1,030,758)
(1,156,932)
Outstanding 10,615,376 10,663,075 10,536,897 Changes to noncontrolling interests are as follows.
Years ended December 31 (In millions) 2010 2009 Beginning balance
$ 7,845
$8,947 Net earnings 535 200 Repurchase of NBCU shares(a)
(1,878)
Dispositions(b)
(979)
(707)
Dividends (317)
(548)
AOCI and otheridc 56 (47)
Ending balance
$ 5,262
$7,845 (ai On September 26, 2010, we acquired 7.7% of NBCU's outstanding shares from Vivendi for $2,000 million, of which $1,878 million was recorded as a reduction in noncontrolling interests and $151 million was recorded as a reduction in additional paid-in capital reflecting the amount paid in excess of the carrying value of the noncontrolling interest.
(Ib Includes the effects of deconsolidating both Regency $(979) million during the second quarter of 2010 and PTL $(331) million during the first quarter of 2009.
(c) Changes to the individual components of AOCI attributable to noncontrolling interests were insignificant.
Note 16.
Other Stock-Related Information We grant stock options, restricted stock units (RSUs) and performance share units (PSUsI to employees under the 2007 Long-Term Incentive Plan. This plan replaced the 1990 Long-Term Incentive Plan. In addition, we grant options and RSUs in limited circumstances to consultants, advisors and independent contrac-tors (primarily non-employee talent at NBC Universal) under a plan approved by our Board of Directors in 1997 (the consultants' plan). There are outstanding grants under one shareowner-approved option plan for non-employee directors. Share requirements forall plans may be met from either unissued or treasury shares. Stock options expire 10 years from the date they are granted and vest over service periods that range from one to five years. RSUs give the recipients the right to receive shares of our stock upon the vesting of their related restrictions.
Restrictions on RSUs vest in various increments and at various dates, beginning after one year from date of grant through grantee retirement. Although the plan permits us to issue RSUs settleable in cash, we have only issued RSUs settleable in shares of our stock. PSUs give recipients the right to receive shares of our stock upon the achievement of certain performance targets.
All grants of GE options under all plans must be approved by the Management Development and Compensation Committee, which consists entirely of independent directors.
NONCONTROLLING INTERESTS Noncontrolling interests in equity of consolidated affiliates includes common shares in consolidated affiliates and preferred stock issued by affiliates of GECC. Preferred shares that we are required to redeem at a specified or determinable date are classi-fied as liabilities. The balance is summarized as follows:
December 31 (In millions) 2010 2009 Noncontrolling interests in consolidated affiliates NBC Universal
$3,040
$4,937 Othersla) 1,945 2,631 Preferred stock(b)
GECC affiliates 277 277 Total
$5,262
$7,845 (a) Included noncontrolling interests in partnerships and common shares of consolidated affiliates.
VbI The preferred stock pays cumulative dividends at an average rate of 6.81%.
GE 2010 ANNUAL REPORT 105
NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS STOCK COMPENSATION PLANS December 31, 2010 lShares in thousands)
APPROVED BY SHAREOWNERS Options RSUs PSUs NOT APPROVED BY SHAREOWNERS (CONSULTANTS' PLAN)
Options RSUs Total (a) In 2007, the Board of Directors approved th Plan). The Plan replaced the 1990 Long-Ter of shares that may be granted under the P more than 250 million may be available for under the Plan other than options or stock 105.9 million shares available for grant un approval of the 2007 Plan. Total shares ava 2007 Plan amounted to 184.8 million share (b) Not applicable.
Ic) Total shares available for future issuance u 28.2 million shares.
Outstanding options expire on vari December 9, 2020.
The following table summarizes options outstanding at December STOCK OPTIONS OUTSTANDING (Shares in thousands)
Outste We measure the fair value of each stock option grant at the date Securities to be Weighted Securities of grant using a Black-Scholes option pricing model. The weighted issued average available upon exercise for future average grant-date fair value of options granted during 2010, exercise price issuance 2009 and 2008 was $4.11, $3.81 and $5.26, respectively. The 399,991
$20.81 lal following assumptions were used in arriving at the fair value of 21,468 (b) lal options granted during 2010, 2009 and 2008, respectively: risk-700 (b)
(al free interest rates of 2.9%, 3.2% and 3.4%; dividend yields of 3.9%,
3.9% and 4.4%; expected volatility of 35%, 49% and 27%; and expected lives of six years and eleven months, six years and ten 448 29.39 ci months, and six years and nine months. Risk-free interest rates 103 Ib) 1c) reflect the yield on zero-coupon U.S. Treasury securities. Expected 422,710
$20.82 213,047 dividend yields presume a set dividend rate. For stock options he 2007 Long-Term Incentive Plan (the granted in 2010, 2009 and the fourth quarter of 2008, we used a m Incentive Plan. The maximum number historical five-year average for the dividend yield. Expected vola-
'Ian is 500 million shares, of which no tilities are based on implied volatilities from traded options and awards granted in any form provided appreciation rights. The approximate historical volatility of our stock. The expected option lives are der the 1990 Plan were retired upon based on our historical experience of employee exercise behavior.
ilable for future issuance under the The total intrinsic value of options exercised during 2010, 2009 esat December 31, 2010.
and 2008 amounted to $23 million, an insignificant amount and
$45 million, respectively. As of December 31, 2010, there was under the consultants' plan amount to
$697 million of total unrecognized compensation cost related to nonvested options. That cost is expected to be recognized over a ous dates through weighted average period of two years, of which approximately
$236 million, pre tax, is expected to be recognized in 2011.
information about stock Stock option expense recognized in net earnings amounted to 31, 2010.
$178 million in 2010, $120 million in 2009 and $69 million in 2008.
Cash received from option exercises during 2010, 2009 and 2008 was $37 million, an insignificant amount and $353 million, respec-tively. The tax benefit realized from stock options exercised during ending Exercisable 2010, 2009 and 2008 was $7 million, an insignificant amount and Average Averag Aerage Avexercse $15 million, respectively.
Exercise price range Shares life(a) price Shares price Under $10.00 64,595 8.1 $ 9.57 13,061
$ 9.57 10,01-15.00 83,081 8.5 11.97 17,093 11.97 15.01-20.00 104,149 9.4 16.22 173 17.56 20.01-25.00 55 1.9 22.49 55 22.49 25.01-30.00 47,745 4.4 27.62 35,404 27.40 30.01-35.00 49,487 4.1 33.21 46,629 33.16 Over $35.00 51,327 2.3 40.38 45,872, 40.57 Total 400,439 6.8 $20.82 158,287
$29.76 At year-end 2009, options with an average exercise price of $36.94 were exercisable on 147 million shares.
(a) Average contractual life remaining in years.
OTHER STOCK-BASED COMPENSATION Weighted average Shares grant date lIn thousands) fair value Weighted average remaining contractual term (In vears)
Aggregate intrinsic value
[In millions)
RSUs outstanding at January 1, 2010 25,861
$31.98 Granted 3,245 15.89 Vested 16,754) 33.38 Forfeited (781) 30.98 RSUs outstanding at December 31, 2010 21,571
$29.16 2.5
$395 RSUs expected to vest 19,773
$29.24 2.4
$362 STOCK OPTION ACTIVITY Weighted average Shares exercise (In thousands) price Weighted average remaining contractual term lIn years)
Aggregate intrinsic value (in millions)
Outstanding at January 1, 2010 338,163
$24.41 Granted 105,227 16.22 Exercised (3,449) 10.65 Forfeited (8,223) 15.26 Expired (31,279) 46.66 Outstanding at December 31, 2010 400,439
$20.82 6.8
$1,312 Exercisable at December 31, 2010 158,287
$29.76 4.0
$ 222 Options expected to vest 213,267
$15.04 8.7
$ 962 106 GE 2010 ANNUAL REPORT
NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS The fair value of each restricted stock unit is the market price of our stock on the date of grant. The weighted average grant date fair value of RSUs granted during 2010, 2009 and 2008 was
$15.89, $13.63 and $28.74, respectively. The total intrinsic value of RSUs vested during 2010, 2009 and 2008 amounted to
$111 million, $139 million and $274 million, respectively. As of December 31, 2010, there was $334 million of total unrecognized compensation cost related to nonvested RSUs. That cost is expected to be recognized over a weighted average period of two years, of which approximately $147 million, pre tax, is expected to be recognized in 2011. As of December 31, 2010, 0.7 million PSUs with a weighted average remaining contractual term of two years, an aggregate intrinsic value of $13 million and $2 million of unrec-ognized compensation cost were outstanding. Other share-based compensation expense for RSUs and PSUs recognized in net earnings amounted to $116 million, $127 million and $155 million in 2010, 2009 and 2008, respectively.
The total income tax benefit recognized in earnings for all share-based compensation arrangements amounted to $143 million,
$118 million and $106 million in 2010,2009 and 2008, respectively.
When stock options are exercised and restricted stock vests, the difference between the assumed tax benefit and the actual tax benefit must be recognized in our financial statements. In circumstances in which the actual tax benefit is lower than the estimated tax benefit, that difference is recorded in equity, to the extent there are sufficient accumulated excess tax benefits.
At December 31, 2010, our accumulated excess tax benefits are sufficient to absorb any future differences between actual and estimated tax benefits for all of our outstanding option and restricted stock grants.
Note 17.
Other Income (In millions) 2010 2009 2008 GE Associated companies(a)
$ 413
$ 667
$ 332 Licensing and royalty income 364 217 291 Purchases and sales of business interests 319 363 891 Interest income from GECS 133 173 371 Marketable securities and bank deposits 40 54 196 Other items 16 (295)
(116) 1,285 1,179 1,965 ELIMINATIONS (134)
(173)
(379)
Total
$1,151
$1,006
$1,586 (a) Included a gain of $552 million related to dilution of our interest in A&E Television Network from 25% to 15.8% in 2009.
Note 18.
GECS Revenues from Services (In millions) 2010 2009 2008 Interest on loans(a)
$21,344
$19,205
$26,378 Equipment leased to others 11,116 12,231 15,568 Feesla) 4,785 4,516 6,062 Financing leases(a) 2,805 3,317 4,374 Investment income(a)(b) 2,185 3,379 2,189 Associated companies 2,035 1,007 2,058 Premiums earned by insurance activities 2,014 2,065 2,255 Real estate investments 1,240 1,543 3,505 Net securitization gainsla) 1,589 1,133 Other items(c) 2,442 2,836 5,058 Total
$49,966
$51,688
$68,580 (a) On January 1, 2010, we adopted ASU 2009-16 & 17, which required us to consolidate substantially all of our former QSPEs. As a result, 2010 GECS revenues from services include interest, investment and fee income from these entities, which were not presented on a consolidated basis in 2009. During 2010, we recognized no gains from securitization transactions, as they were recorded as on-book financings. See Note 24.
(b) Included net other-than-temporary impairments on investment securities of
$253 million and $581 million in 2010 and 2009. respectively. See Note.3.
Ide Included a gain on the sale of a limited partnership interest in PTL and a related gain on the remeasurement of the retained investment to fair value totaling
$296 million in the first quarter of 2009. See Note 24.
Note 19.
Supplemental Cost Information We funded research and development expenditures of $3,939 mil-lion in 2010, $3,288 million in 2009 and $3,113 million in 2008.
Research and development costs are classified in cost of goods sold in the Statement of Earnings. In addition, research and devel-opment funding from customers, principally the U.S. government, totaled $979 million, $1,050 million and $1,287 million in 2010, 2009 and 2008, respectively.
Rental expense under operating leases is shown below.
(In millions) 2010 2009 2008 GE
$1,073
$1,012
$912 GECS 640 802.
992 At December 31, 2010, minimum rental commitments under noncancellable operating leases aggregated $2,397 million and
$2,380 million for GE and GECS, respectively. Amounts payable over the next five years follow.
(In millions) 2011 2012 2013 2014 2015 GE
$613
$470
$355
$286
$212 GECS 517 466 306 223 180 GE 2010 ANNUAL REPORT 107
I NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS GE's selling, general and administrative expenses totaled
$16,341 million in 2010, $14,842 million in 2009 and $14,401 mil-lion in 2008. The increase in 2010 is primarily due to increased selling expenses to support global growth and higher pension costs, partially offset by lower restructuring and other charges.
Our Technology Infrastructure and Energy Infrastructure segments enter into collaborative arrangements with manufac-turers and suppliers of components used to build and maintain certain engines, aeroderivatives and turbines, under which GE and these participants share in risks and rewards of these prod-uct programs. Under these arrangements, participation fees earned and recorded as other income totaled $4 million, $1 mil-lion and $394 million for the years 2010, 2009 and 2008, respectively. Payments to participants are recorded as costs of services sold ($563 million, $504 million and $423 million for the years 2010, 2009 and 2008, respectively) or as cost of goods sold
($1,751 million, $1,731 million and $1,882 million for the years 2010, 2009 and 2008, respectively).
Note 20.
Earnings Per Share Information 2010 2009 2008 (In millions; per-share amounts in dollars)
Diluted Basic Diluted Basic Diluted Basic AMOUNTS ATTRIBUTABLE TO THE COMPANY:
CONSOLIDATED Earnings from continuing operations for per-share calculation (a)(b)
$12,599
$12,598
$10,914
$10,913
$18,028
$18,027 Preferred stock dividends declared (300)
(300)
(300)
(300)
(75)
(75)
Earnings from continuing operations attributable to common shareowners for per-shire calculation (a)Ibi 12,299 12,298 10,614 10,613 17,953 17,952 Earnings (loss) from discontinued operations for per-share calculation (a)(bI (975)
(975) 83 82 (617)
(617)
Net earnings attributable to common shareowners for per-share calculation (a)(b)
$11,322
$11,322
$10,695
$10,694
$17,336
$17,335 AVERAGE EQUIVALENT SHARES Shares of GE common stock outstanding 10,661 10,661 10,614 10,614 10,080 10,080' Employee compensation-related shares, including stock options 17 1
18 Total average equivalent shares 10,678 10,661 10,615 10,614 10,098 10,080 PER-SHARE AMOUNTS Earnings from continuing operations 1.15
$ 1.15 1.00 1.00 1.78 1.78 Earnings (loss) from discontinued operations (0.09)
(0.09) 0.01 0.01 (0.06)
(0.06)
Net earnings 1.06 1.06 1.01 1.01 1.72 1.72 Effective January 1, 2009, our unvested restricted stock unit awards that contain non-forfeitable rights to dividends or dividend equivalents are considered participating securities and, therefore, are included in the computation of earnings per share pursuant to the two-class method. Application of this treatment had an insignificant effect.
(a) Included an insignificant amount of dividend equivalents in each of the three years presented.
(b) Included an insignificant amount related to accretion of redeemable securities in 2010 and 2009.
For the years ended December 31, 2010, 2009 and 2008, there were approximately 344 million, 328 million and 204 million, respectively, of outstanding stock awards that were not included in the computation of diluted earnings per share because their effect was antidilutive.
Earnings-per-share amounts are computed independently for earnings from continuing operations, earnings (loss) from discontinued operations and net earnings. As a result, the sum of per-share amounts from continuing operations and discontin-ued operations may not equal the total per-share amounts for net earnings.
Note 21.
Fair Value Measurements For a description of how we estimate fair value, see Note 1.
The following tables present our assets and liabilities mea-sured at fair value on a recurring basis. Included in the tables are investment securities of $27,141 million and $25,729 million at December 31, 2010 and 2009, respectively, primarily supporting obligations to annuitants and policyholders in our run-off insurance operations, and $5,706 million and $6,629 million at December 31, 2010 and 2009, respectively, supporting obligations to holders of GICs in Trinity (which ceased issuing new investment contracts beginning in the first quarter of 2010), and investment securities held at our global banks. Such securities are mainly investment grade.
108 GE 2010 ANNUAL REPORT
NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS (In millions)
DECEMBER 31, 2010 Netting Level I(al Level 2 (al Level 3lbJ adjustmentlcl Net balance ASSETS Investment securities Debt U.S. corporate State and municipal Residential mortgage-backed Commercial mortgage-backed Asset-backed Corporate-non-U.S.
Government-non-U.S.
U.S. government and federal agency Retained interests(d)
Equity Available-for-sale Trading Derivatives(e)
Other(fl 47 89 777
$19,374
$ 3,199
$22,573 2,499 225 2,724 2,696 66 2,809 2,875 49 2,924 690 2,540 3,230 1,292 1,486 2,867 1,333 156 2,266 3,158 210 3,368 39 39 677 417
$2,007 20 24 721 417 10,997 359 (3,867) 7,489 906 906
$44,934
$ 9,259
$(3,867)
$52,333 Total LIABILITIES Derivatives
$ 6,553 103
$(3,857)
$ 2,799 Otherng) 920 920 Total
$ 7,473 103
$S3,857)
$ 3,719 DECEMBER 31, 2009 ASSETS Investment securities Debt U.S. corporate
$ 555
$19,033
$ 3,068
$22,656 State and municipal 2,189 205 2,394 Residential mortgage-backed 3,195 123 3,318 Commercial mortgage-backed 2,647 58 2,705 Asset-backed 860 1,874 2,734 Corporate-non-U.S.
154 755 1,114 2,023 Government-non-U.S.
1,114 1,374 163 2,651 U.S. government and federal agency 9
2,307 256 2,572 Retained interests 8,831 8,831 Equity Available-for-sale 536 184 19 739 Trading 720 720 Derivatives (e) 11,053 804 (3,851) 8,006 Other(f) 965 965 Total
$3,088
$43,597
$17,480
$(3,851)
$60,314 LIABILITIES Derivatives
$ 7,298 222
$(3,860)
$ 3,660 Other(g) 798 798 Total
$ 8,096 222
$(3.860)
$ 4,458 (a) Included in Level I at December 31, 2010 was $76 million of available-for-sale equity transferred from Level 2 due to the expiration of sale restrictions on the security.
Additionally, $110 million of government non-U.S. bonds were reclassified from Level i to Level 2. Other transfers to and from Level l and Level 2 were insignificant.
(b) Level 3 investment securities valued using non-binding broker quotes totaled $1,054 million and $1,042 million at December 31, 2010 and 2009, respectively, and were classified as available-for-sale securities.
Ic The netting of derivative receivables and payables is permitted when a legally enforceable master netting agreement exists. Included fair value adjustments related to our own and counterparty credit risk.
d) Substantially all of our retained interests were consolidated in connection with our adoption of ASU 2009-16 & 17 on January 1, 2010.
(e) The fair value of derivatives included an adjustment for non-performance risk. At December 31, 2010 and 2009, the cumulativeadjustment was a loss of $10 million and a gain of $9 million, respectively. See Note 22 for additional information on the composition of bur derivative portfolio.
(f) Included private equity investments and loans designated under the fair value option.
(g) Primarily represented the liability associated with certain of our deferred incentive compensation plans.
GE 2010 ANNUAL REPORT 109
NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS The following tables present the changes in Level 3 instruments measured on a recurring basis for the years ended December 31, 2010 and 2009, respectively. The majority of our Level 3 balances consist of investment securities classified as available-for-sale with changes in fair value recorded in shareowners' equity.
CHANGES IN LEVEL 3 INSTRUMENTS FOR THE YEAR ENDED DECEMBER 31, 2010 Net realized/
Net change unrealized in unrealized gains (losses) gains (losses)
Net realized/
included in relating to unrealized accumulated Purchases, Transfers instruments gains (losses) other issuances in and/or still held at January 1, included in comprehensive and out of December 31, December 31, (in millions) 2 0 101a) earnings bl income settlements Level 3(c) 2010 2010(d)
Investment securities Debt U.S. corporate
$3,068
$ 79
$276
$ 1215)
$ (9)
$3,199 State and municipal 205 25 (5) 225 Residential mortgage-backed 123 (1) 13 2
(71) 66 Commercial mortgage-backed 1,041 30 (2)
(1,0171 (3) 49 Asset-backed 1,872 25 14 733 (104) 2,540 Corporate-non-U.S.
1,331 (38)
(39) 250 (18) 1,486 Government-non-U.S.
163 (8) 1 156 U.S. government and federal agency 256 (44)
(2) 210 Retained interests 45 (1) 3 (8) 39 Equity Available-for-sale 19 3
2 24 1
Trading Derivatives(e)(fl 236 220 15 (79)
(127) 265 41 Other 891 5
(30) 40 906 3
Total
$9,250
$319
$226
$ (301)
$(329)
$9,165 [
$45 (a) Included $1,015 million in debt securities, a reduction in retained interests of $8,782 million and a reduction in derivatives of $365 million related to adoption of ASU 2009-16 & 17.
(b) Earnings effects are primarily included in the "GECS revenues from services" and "Interest and other financial charges" captions in the Statement of Earnings.
(c) Transfers in and out of Level 3 are considered to occur at the beginning of the period. Transfers out of Level 3 were a result of increased use of quotes from independent pricing vendors based on recent trading activity.
(d) Represented the amount of unrealized gains or losses for the period included in earnings.
(e) Represented derivative assets net of derivative liabilities and included cash accruals of $9 million not reflected in the fair value hierarchy table.
(f) Gains (losses) included in net realized/unrealized gains-(losses) included in earnings were offset by the earnings effects from the underlying items that were economically hedged. See Note 22.
110 GE 2010 ANNUAL REPORT
NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS CHANGES IN LEVEL 3 INSTRUMENTS FOR THE YEAR ENDED DECEMBER 31, 2009 Net realize unrealit gains (IosL Net realized/
includec unrealized accumulai gains (losses) oti January 1.
included in comprehens (In millions) 2009 earninas(a) inco ed/
ed ses) din ted her yie me Purchases.
issuances and settlements Net change in unrealized gains (losses) relating to instruments still held at December 31, 2 0 0 9 {c)
.Transfers in and/or out of Level 3(b)
December 31, 2009 +
Investment securities Debt U.S. corporate State and municipal Residential mortgage-backed Commercial mortgage-backed Asset-backed Corporate-non-U.S.
Government-non-U.S.
U.S. government and federal agency Retained interests Equity Available-for-sale Trading Derivatives (e)
Other
$ 3,114 252 173 70 1,601 790 424 153 6,356
$ (108)
(1) 3 1,273(d)
$ 360 (101)
(6)
(5) 246 108 10 103 382
$(304) 18 (20)
(8) 98 44 (10) 820 (1)
(294)
(6) 6 36 (23) 1 (74) 172 (261)
(5)
(159) 7
$ 3,068 205 123 58 1,874 1,114 163 256 8,831 4
252 90 (134) 23 1,003 1,105 I)l 80 (171) 3 (29) 30 19 601 965 Total
$15,064
$1,075
$1,101
$337
$(300)
$17,277
$212 (a) Earnings effects are primarily included in the "GECS revenues from services" and "Interest and other financial charges" captions in the Statement of Earnings.
(b) Transfers in and out of Level 3 are considered to occur at the beginning of the period. Transfers out of Level 3 were a result of increased use of quotes from independent pricing vendors based on recent trading activity.
(c) Represented the amount of unrealized gains or losses for the period included in earnings.
(d) Primarily comprised of interest accretion.
(e) Represented derivative assets net of derivative liabilities and included cash accruals of $19 million not reflected in the fair value hierarchy table.
Non-Recurring Fair Value Measurements The following table represents non-recurring fair value amounts (as measured at the time of the adjustment) for those assets remeasured to fair value on a non-recurring basis during the fiscal year and still held at December 31, 2010 and 2009. These assets can include loans and long-lived assets that have been reduced to fair value when they are held for sale, impaired loans that have been reduced based on the fair value of the underlying collateral, cost and equity method investments and long-lived assets that are written down to fair value when they are impaired and the remeasurement of retained investments in formerly consolidated subsidiaries upon a change in control that results in deconsolida-tion of a subsidiary, if we sell a controlling interest and retain a noncontrolling stake in the entity. Assets that are written down to fair value when impaired and retained investments are not subse-quently adjusted to fair value unless further impairment occurs.
Remeasured during the year ended December 31 2010 2009 (In millions)
Level 2 Level 3 Level 2 Level 3 Financing receivables and loans held for sale 54
$ 6,833
$ 81
$ 5,352 Cost and equity method investmentsla) 510 1,006 Long-lived assets, including real estate 1,025 5,811 435 5,074 Retained investments in formerly consolidated subsidiariesib) 113 5,903 Total
$1,079
$13,267
$516
$17,335 (a) Includes the fair value of private equity and real estate funds included in Level 3 of $296 million and $409 million at December 31, 2010 and 2009, respectively.
(b) During 2010, our retained investment in Regency, a formerly consolidated subsidiary, was remeasured to a Level 1 fair value of $549 million.
The following table represents the fair value adjustments to assets measured at fair value on a non-recurring basis and still held at December 31, 2010 and 2009.
Year ended December 31 (In millions) 2010 2009 Financing receivables and loans held for sale
$(1,745)
$(1,683)
Cost and equity method investmentslal (274)
(921)
Long-lived assets, including real estate(b)
(2,958)
(1,107)
Retained investments in formerly consolidated subsidiaries 184' 237 Total
$(4,793)
$(3,474)
(a) Includes fair value adjustments associated with private equity and real estate funds of $(198) million and $(238) million during 2010 and 2009, respectively.
(b) Includes $2,089 million of impairments related to real estate equity properties and investments recorded in other costs and expenses during 2010.
GE 2010 ANNUAL REPORT 111
NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS Note 22.
Financial Instruments The following table provides information about the assets and liabilities not carried at fair value in our Statement of Financial Position.
Consistent with ASC 825, Financial Instruments, the table excludes finance leases and non-financial assets and liabilities. Apart from certain of our borrowings and certain marketable securities, few of the instruments discussed below are actively traded and their fair values must often be determined using financial models. Realization of the fair value of these instruments depends upon market forces beyond our control, including marketplace liquidity.
2010 Assets (liabilities)
Notional Carrying Estimated amount amount (net) fair value 2009 Assets Iliabilities)
Notional Carrying Estimated amount amount (net) fair value December 31 (In millions)
GE Assets Investments and notes receivable Liabilities Borrowings(C)
GECS Assets Loans(b)
Other commercial mortgages Loans held for sale Other financial instrumentsid)
Liabilities Borrowings and bank depositslbl)(c)e)
Investment contract benefits Guaranteed investment contracts Insurance-credit life(f)
(a) $
414 414 (a)
(10,112)
(10,953) la) $
412 412 (a)
(12,185)
(12,757)
(a) 273,969 (a) 1,041 (a) 287 (a) 2,103 (a) (470,562)
(a)
(3,726)
(a)
(5,502) 1,825 (103) 270,344 1,103 287 2,511 (482,765)
(4,264)
(5,524)
(69)
(a)
(a)
(a)
(a) 273,263 1,151 1,303 2,096 (493,585)
(3,940)
(8,310).
(80) 259,799 1,198 1,343 2,385 (499,409)
(4,397)
(8,394)
(53)
(a)
(a)
(a) 1,595 (a) These financial instruments do not have notional amounts.
(b) Amounts at December 31, 2010 reflect our adoption of ASU 2009-16 & 17 on January 1. 2010. See Notes 6, 10, 23 and 24.
(c) See Note 10.
(d) Principally cost method investments.
(e) Fair values exclude interest rate and currency derivatives designated as hedges of borrowings. Had they been included, the fair value of borrowings at December 31, 2010 and 2009 would have been reduced by $4,298 million and $2,856 million, respectively.
(f) Net of reinsurance of $2,800 million at both December 31, 2010 and 2009.
A description of how we estimate fair values follows.
Loans Based on quoted market prices and recent transactions when available. When this data is unobservable, we use a discounted future cash flows methodology, using current market interest rate data adjusted for inherent credit risk.
Borrowings and bank deposits Based on valuation methodologies using current market interest rate data which are comparable to market quotes adjusted for our non-performance risk.
Investment contract benefits Based on expected future cash flows, discounted at currently offered rates for immediate annuity contracts or the income approach for single premium deferred annuities.
Guaranteed investment contracts Based on valuation methodologies using current market interest rate data, adjusted for our non-performance risk.
All other instruments Based on observable market transactions, valuation methodolo-gies using current market interest rate data adjusted for inherent.
credit risk and/or quoted market prices.
Assets and liabilities that are reflected in the accompanying financial statements at fair value are not included in the above disclosures; such items include cash and equivalents, investment securities and derivative financial instruments.
Additional information about certain categories in the table above follows.
INSURANCE-CREDIT LIFE Certain insurance affiliates, primarily in Consumer, issue credit life insurance designed to pay the balance due on a loan if the bor-rower dies before the loan is repaid. As part of our overall risk management process, we cede to third parties a portion of this associated risk, but are not relieved of our primary obligation to policyholders.
112 GE2010 ANNUAL REPORT
NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS LOAN COMMITMENTS The following table provides information about the fair value of our derivatives, by contract type, separating those accounted for as hedges and thosethat are not.
Notional amount December 31 (In millions) 2010 2009 Ordinary course of business lending commitments (al(b)
$ 4,507
$ 6,676 Unused revolving credit lines(cl Commercial(d) 23,779 31,760 Consumer-principally credit cards 227,006 229,386 (a) Excluded investment commitments of $1,990 million and $2.659 million as of December 31, 2010 and 2009. respectively.
(b) Included a $972 million commitment as of December 31, 2009, associated with a secured financing arrangement that could have increased to a maximum of
$4,998 million based on the asset volume under the arrangement. This commitment was terminated during the third quarter of 2010.
(c} Excluded inventory financing arrangements, which may be withdrawn at our option, of $11,840 million and $13,889 million as of December 31. 2010 and 2009, respectively.
(d) Included commitments of $16,243 million and $17,643 million as of December 31, 2010 and 2009, respectively, associated with secured financing arrangements that could have increased to a maximum of $20,268 million and $23,992 million at December 31, 2010 and 2009, respectively, based on asset volume under the arrangement.
Derivatives and hedging As a matter of policy, we use derivatives for risk mnnagement purposes, and we do not use derivatives for speculative purposes.
A key risk management objective for our financial services busi-nesses is to mitigate interest rate and currency risk by seeking to ensure that the characteristics of the debt match the assets they are funding. If the form (fixed versus floating) and currency denomination of the debt we issue do not match the related assets, we typically execute derivatives to adjust the nature and tenor of funding to meet this objective. The determination of whether we enter into a derivative transaction or issue'debt directly to achieve this objective depends on a number of factors, including market related factors that affect the type of debt we tan issue.
The notional amounts of derivative contracts represent the basis upon which interest and other payments are calculated and are reported gross, except for offsetting foreign currency forward contracts that are executed in order to manage our currency risk of net investment in foreign subsidiaries. Of the outstanding notional amount of $347,000 million, approximately 86% or
$300,000 million, is associated with reducing or eliminating the interest rate, currency or market risk between financial assets and liabilities in our financial services businesses. The remaining derivative activities primarily relate to hedging against adverse changes in currency exchange rates and commodity prices related to anticipated sales and purchases and contracts contain-ing certain clauses which meet the accounting definition of a derivative. The instruments used in these activities are desig-nated as hedges when practicable. When we are not able to apply hedge accounting, or when the derivative and the hedged item are both recorded in earnings currently, the derivatives are deemed economic hedges and hedge accounting is not applied.
This most frequently occurs when we hedge a recognized foreign currency transaction (e.g., a receivable or payable) with a deriva-tive. Since the effects of changes in exchange rates are reflected currently in earnings for both the derivative and the transaction, the economic hedge does not require hedge accounting.
2010 Fair value 2009 Fair value December 31 (In millions)
Assets Liabilities Assets Liabilities DERIVATIVES ACCOUNTED FOR AS HEDGES Interest rate contracts $ 5,959
$ 2,675
$4,477
$ 3,469 Currency exchange contracts 2,965 2,533 4,273 2,361 Other contracts 5
16 4
8,929 5,208 8,766 5,834 DERIVATIVES NOT ACCOUNTED FOR AS HEDGES Interest rate contracts 294 552 974 892 Currency exchange contracts 1,602 846 1,639 658 Other contracts 531 50 478 136 2,427 NETTING ADJUSTMENTS(aI (3,867)
Total
$7,489 1,448 3,091 1,686 (3,857)
$ 2,799 (3,851)
$8,006 (3,860)
$3,660 Derivatives are classified in the captions "All other assets" and "All other liabilities" in our financial statements.
la) The netting of derivative receivables and payables is permitted when a legally enforceable master netting agreement exists. Amounts included fair value adjustments related to our own and counterparty non-performance risk. At December 31, 2010 and 2009, the cumulative adjustment for non-performance risk was a loss of $10 million and a gain of $9 million, respectively.
FAIR VALUE HEDGES We use interest rate and currency exchange derivatives to hedge the fair value effects of interest rate and currency exchange rate changes on local and non-functional currency denominated fixed-rate debt. For relationships designated as fair value hedges, changes in fair value of the derivatives are recorded in earnings within interest and other financial charges, along with offsetting adjustments to the carrying amount of the hedged debt. The following table provides information about the earnings effects of our fair value hedging relationships for the years ended December 31, 2010 and 2009.
2010 Gain (loss)
Gain (loss)
Year ended on hedging on hedged December 31 (In millionss derivatives items Interest rate contracts
$2,387
$(2,924)
Currency exchange contracts 47 160) 2009 Gain (loss)
Gain (loss) on hedging on hedged derivatives items
$(5,194)
$4,998 (1,106) 1,093 Fair value hedges resulted in $(550) million and $(209) million of ineffectiveness in 2010 and 2009, respectively. In 2010 and 2009, there were insignificant amounts and
$(225) million excluded from the assessment of effectiveness, respectively.
CASH FLOW HEDGES We use interest rate, currency exchange and commodity deriva-tives to reduce the variability of expected future cash flows associated with variable rate borrowings and commercial pur-chase and sale transactions, including commodities. For derivatives that are designated in a cash flow hedging relation-ship, the effective portion of the change in fair value of the derivative is reported as a component of AOCI and reclassified GE 2010 ANNUAL REPORT 113
NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS into earnings contemporaneously and in the same caption with the earnings effects of the hedged transaction.
The following table provides information about the amounts recorded in AOCI, as well as the gain (loss) recorded in earnings, primarily in interest and other financial charges, when reclassified out of AOCI, for the years ended December 31, 2010 and 2009.
Gain (loss) recognized Gain (loss) reclassified from Year ended in AULI AOUC into earnings December 31 (In millions) 2010 2009 2010 2009 CASH FLOW HEDGES Interest rate contracts
$ (571)
$ (854)
$11,356)
$(2,047)
Currency exchange contracts (550) 2,579 (445) 972 Commodity contracts 10 (5) 2 (5)
Total
$(1,111)
$1,720
$(1,799)
$(1,080)
The total pre-tax amount in AOCI related to cash flow hedges of forecasted transactions was $1,941 million at December 31, 2010. We expect to transfer
$(1,004) million to earnings as an expense in the next 12 months contemporaneously with the earnings effects of the related forecasted transactions. In 2010, we recognized insignificant gains and losses related to hedged forecasted transactions and firm commitments that did not occur by the end of the originally specified period.
At December 31, 2010 and 2009, the maximum term of derivative instruments that hedge forecasted transactions was 25 years and 26 years, respectively, and related to hedges of anticipated interest payments associated with external debt.
For cash flow hedges, the amount of ineffectiveness in the hedg-ing relationship and amount of the changes in fair value of the derivatives that are not included in the measurement of ineffec-tiveness are both reflected in earnings each reporting period.
These amounts are primarily reported in GECS revenues from services and totaled $19 million and $49 million for the years ended December 31, 2010 and 2009, respectively, of which
$(18) million represents amounts excluded from the assessment of effectiveness for the year ended December 31, 2009.
Net investment hedges in foreign operations We use currency exchange derivatives to protect our net invest-ments in global operations conducted in non-U.S. dollar currencies. For derivatives that are designated as hedges of net investment in a foreign operation, we assess effectiveness based on changes in spot currency exchange rates. Changes in spot rates on the derivative are recorded as a component of AOCI until such time as the foreign entity is substantially liquidated or sold.
The change in fair value of the forward points, which reflects the interest rate differential between the two countries on the deriva-tive, is excluded from the effectiveness assessment.
The following table provides information about the amounts recorded in AOCI for the years ended December 31, 2010 and 2009, as well as the gain (loss) recorded in GECS revenues from services when reclassified out of AOCI.
The amounts related to the change in the fair value of the forward points that are excluded from the measure of effectiveness were
$(906) million and $(899) million for the years ended December 31, 2010 and 2009, respectively, and are recorded in interest and other financial charges.
FREE-STANDING DERIVATIVES Changes in the fair value of derivatives that are not designated as hedges are recorded in earnings each period. As discussed above, these derivatives are typically entered into as economic hedges of changes in interest rates, currency exchange rates, commodity prices and other risks. Gains or losses related to the derivative are typically recorded in GECS revenues from services or other income, based on our accounting policy. In general, the earnings effects of the item that represent the economic risk exposure are recorded in the same caption as the derivative. Losses for the year ended December 31, 2010 on derivatives not designated as hedges were $(302) million comprised of amounts related to interest rate contracts of $185 million, currency exchange con-tracts of $(666) million, and other derivatives of $179 million.
These losses were more than offset by the earnings effects from the underlying items that were economically hedged. Gains for the year ended December 31, 2009 on derivatives not designated as hedges, without considering the offsetting earnings effects from the item representing the economic risk exposure, were
$1,021 million comprised of amounts related to interest rate contracts of $211 million, currency exchange contracts of
$499 million, and other derivatives of $311 million.
COUNTERPARTY CREDIT RISK Fair values of our derivatives can change significantly from period to period based on, among other factors, market movements and changes in our positions. Accordingly, we actively monitor these exposures and take appropriate actions in response. We manage counterparty credit risk (the risk that counterparties will default and not make payments to us according to the terms of our standard master agreements) on an individual counterparty basis.
Where we have agreed to netting of derivative exposures with a counterparty, we offset our exposures with that counterparty and apply the value of collateral posted to us to determine the expo-sure. When net exposure to a counterparty, based on the current market values of agreements and collateral, exceeds credit expo-sure limits (see following table), we typically take action to reduce such exposures. These actions may include prohibiting additional transactions with the counterparty, requiring additional collateral from the counterparty (as described below) and terminating or restructuring transactions.
As discussed above, we have provisions in certain of our master agreements that require counterparties to post collateral (typically, cash or U.S. Treasuries) when our receivable due from the counterparty, measured at current market value, exceeds a specified limit. At December 31, 2010, our exposure to counter-parties, including interest due, net of collateral we hold, was
$1,232 million. The fair value of such collateral was $7,689 million, of which $2,112 million was cash and $5,577 million was in the Gain (loss) recognized Gain (loss) reclassified Year ended in C.i from C.i December 31 (In millions) 2010 2009 2010 2009 NET INVESTMENT HEDGES Currency exchange contracts
$12,023)
$(6,240)
$138)
$(84) 114 GE 2010 ANNUAL REPORT
NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS form of securities held by a custodian for our benefit. Under certain of these same agreements, we post collateral to our counterparties for our derivative obligations, the fair value of which was $1,528 million at December 31, 2010.
Following is our policy relating to initial credit rating require-ments and to exposure limits to counterparties.
COUNTERPARTY CREDIT CRITERIA Credit rating Moody's S&P Foreign exchange forwards (less than one year)
All derivatives between one and five years All derivatives greater than five years P-1 A-1 Aa3 (a)
AA-(a)
Aa (al)
AAA(a)
(a) Counterparties that have an obligation to provide collateral to cover credit exposure in accordance with a credit support agreement typically have a minimum A3/A-rating.
EXPOSURE LIMITS In millions)
Minimum rating Exposure(a)
With collateral Without collateral Moody's S&P arrangements arrangements Aaa AAA
$100
$75 Aa3 AA-50 50 A3 A-5 (a) For derivatives with exposures less than one year, counterparties are permitted to have unsecured exposure up to $150 million with a minimum rating of A-i/P-1.
Exposure to a counterparty is determined net of collateral.
Additionally, our standard master agreements typically contain mutual downgrade provisions that provide the ability of each party to require termination if the long-term credit rating of the counterparty were to fall below A-/A3. In certain of these master agreements, each party also has the ability to require termination if the short-term rating of the counterparty were to fall below A-i/P-1. The net amount relating to our derivative liability of
$2,799 million subject to these provisions, after consideration of collateral posted by us, and outstanding interest payments, was
$1,022 million at December 31, 2010.
Note 23.
Supplemental Information about the Credit Quality of Financing Receivables and Allowance for Losses on Financing Receivables Pursuant to new disclosures required by ASC 310-10, effective December 31, 2010, we provide further detailed information about the credit quality of our Commercial, Real Estate and Consumer financing receivables portfolios. For each portfolio, we describe the characteristics of the financing receivables and provide information about collateral, payment performance, credit quality indicators, and impairment. While we provide data on selected credit quality indicators in accordance with the new disclosure requirements of ASC 310-10, we manage these portfo-lios using delinquency and nonearning data as key performance indicators. The categories used within this section such as impaired loans, troubled debt restructuring and nonaccrual financing receivables are defined by the authoritative guidance and we base our categorization on the related scope and defini-tions contained in the related standards. The categories of nonearning and delinquent are defined by us and are used in our process for managing our financing receivables. Definitions of these categories are provided below:
IMPAIRED LOANS are larger-balance or restructured loans for which it is probable that the lender will be unable to collect all amounts due according to original contractual terms of the loan agreement.
TROUBLED DEBT RESTRUCTURINGS are those loans for which we have granted a concession to a borrower experiencing financial difficulties where we do not receive adequate compensation.
Such loans are classified as impaired, and are individually reviewed for specific reserves.
NONACCRUAL FINANCING RECEIVABLES are those on which we have stopped accruing interest. We stop accruing interest at the earlier of the time at which collection of an account becomes doubtful or the account becomes 90 days past due. Although we stop accruing interest in advance of payments, we recognize interest income as cash is collected when appropriate provided the amount does not exceed that which would have been earned at the historical effective interest rate.
NONEARNING FINANCING RECEIVABLES are a subset of nonaccrual financing receivables for which cash payments are not being received or for which we are on the cost recovery method of accounting (i.e., any payments are accounted for as a reduction of principal). This category excludes loans purchased at a discount (unless they have deteriorated post acquisition).
DELINQUENT FINANCING RECEIVABLES are those that are 30 days or more past due based on their contractual terms.
The same financing receivable may meet more than one of the definitions above. Accordingly, these categories are not mutually exclusive and it is possible for a particular loan to meet the defini-tions of a TDR, impaired loan, nonaccrual loan and nonearning loan and be included in each of these categories in the tables that follow. The categorization of a particular loan also may not be indicative of the potential for loss.
Commercial Substantially all of our commercial portfolio comprises secured collateral positions. CLL products include loans and leases collat-eralized by a wide variety of equipment types, cash flow loans, asset-backed loans and factoring arrangements. Our loans and leases are secured by assets such as heavy machinery, vehicles, medical equipment, corporate aircraft, and office imaging equip-ment. Cash flow financing is secured by our ability to liquidate the underlying assets of the borrower and the asset-backed loans GE 2010 ANNUAL REPORT 115
NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS and factoring arrangements are secured by customer accounts receivable, inventory, and/or machinery and equipment. The portfolios in our Energy Financial Services and GECAS businesses are primarily collateralized by energy generating assets and commercial aircraft, respectively. Our senior secured position and risk management expertise provide loss mitigation against bor-rowers with weak credit characteristics.
FINANCING RECEIVABLES AND ALLOWANCE FOR LOSSES The following table provides further information about general and specific reserves related to Commercial financing receivables.
PAST DUE FINANCING RECEIVABLES The following table displays payment performance of Commercial financing receivables.
COMMERCIAL 2010 2009 Over 30 days Over 90 days Over 30 days Over 90 days past due past due past due past due December 31 CLL Americas Europe Asia 1.3%
4.2 2.2 0.8%
2.1%
1.5%
2.3 5.0 3.0 1.4 3.9 3.1 COMMERCIAL Other 0.7 Total CLL 2.1 Energy Financial Services 0.9 GECAS Other 5.8 0.3 1.5 1.3 3.1 0.8 0.6 1.2 5.5 1.6 0.8 2.0 0.6 1.2 1.3 Financing receivables at December 31, January 1, December 31.
In millions) 2010 2 0 10 (a) 2009 CLL(b)
Americas
$ 86,596
$ 99,666
$ 87,496 Europe 37,498 43,403 41,455 Asia 11,943 13,159 13,202 Other 2,626 2,836 2,836 Total CLL 138,663 159,064 144,989 Energy Financial Services 7,011 7,790 7,790 GECAS(Ib 12,615 13,254 13,254 Otheric) 1,788 2,614 2,614 Total Commercial financing receivables, before allowance for losses
$160,077
$182,722
$168,647 Non-impaired financing receivables
$154,257
$177,637
$163,661 General reserves 1,014 1,200 1,102 Impaired loans 5,820 5,085 4,986 Specific reserves 1,031 1,031 1,073 la) Reflects the effects of our adoption of ASU 2009-16 & 17 on January 1, 2010.
IbN During the first quarter of 2010, we transferred the Transportation Financial Services business from GECAS to CLL and the Consumer business in Italy from Consumer to CLL. Prior-period amounts were reclassified to conform to the current-period presentation.
(c) Primarily consisted of loans and financing leases in former consolidated, liquidating securitization entities, which became wholly owned affiliates in December 2010.
116 GE 2010 ANNUAL REPORT
NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS NONACCRUAL FINANCING RECEIVABLES The following table provides further information about Commercial financing receivables that are classified as nonaccrual. Of our
$5,463 million of nonaccrual financing receivables at December 31, 2010, $1,016 million are currently paying in accordance with their contractual terms.
COMMERCIAL(a)
Nonaccrual financing receivables at Nonearning financing receivables at December 31, January 1, December 31, December 31, January 1, December 31, (Dollars in millions) 2010 2 0 10(b) 2009 2010 2 0 10 b) 2009 CLL Americas
$3,206
$3,776
$3,484
$2,571
$3,437
$3,155 Europe 1,415" 1,441 1,441 1,241 1,441 1,441 Asia 616 559 576 406 559 576 Other 9
24 24 8
24 24 Total CLL 5,246 5,800 5,525 4,226 5,461 5,196 Energy Financial Services 78 183 183 62 78 78 GECAS 153 153 153 153 Other 139 95 95 102 72 72 Total
$5,463
$6,231
$5,956
$4,390
$5,764
$5,499 Allowance for losses percentage 37.4%
.35.8%
36.5%
46.6%
38.7%
39.6%
(a) During the first quarter of 2010, we transferred the Consumer business in Italy from Consumer to CLL. Prior period amounts were reclassified to conform to the current-period presentation.
lb) Reflects the effects of our adoption of ASU 2009-16 & 17 on January 1, 2010.
IMPAIRED LOANS The following table provides information about loans classified as impaired and specific reserves related to Commercial.
COMMERCIAL(a)
With no specific allowance With a specific allowance Recorded Unpaid Average Recorded Unpaid Average investment principal investment in investment principal Associated investment in December 31, 2010 (In millions) in loans balance loans in loans balance allowance loans CLL Americas
$2,030
$2,127
$1,547
$1,699
$1,744
$ 589
$1,754 Europe 802 674 629 566 566 267 563 Asia 119 117 117 338 303 132 334 Other 9
Total CLL 2,951 2,918 2,302 2,603 2,613 988 2,651 Energy Financial Services 54 61 76 24 24 6
70 GECAS 24 24 50 31 Other 58 57 30 106 99 37 82 Total
$3,087
$3,060
$2,458
$2,733
$2,736
$1,031
$2,834 (a) We recognized $88 million of interest income for the year ended December 31, 2010, principally on a cash basis. A substantial majority of this amount was related to income recognized in our CLL-Americas business.
CREDIT QUALITY INDICATORS Substantially all of our Commercial financing receivables portfolio is secured lending and we assess the overall quality of the port-folio based on the potential risk of loss measure. The metric incorporates both the borrower's credit quality along with any related collateral protection.
Our internal risk ratings process is an important source of information in determining our allowance for losses and repre-sents a comprehensive, statistically validated approach to evaluate risk in our financing receivables portfolios. In deriving our internal risk ratings, we stratify our Commercial portfolios into twenty-one categories of default risk and/or six categories of loss given default to group into three categories: A, B and C. Our process starts by developing an internal risk rating for our borrowers, which is based upon our proprietary models using data derived from borrower financial statements, agency ratings, payment history information, equity prices and other commercial borrower characteristics. We then evaluate the potential risk of loss for the specific lending transaction in the event of borrower default, which takes into account such factors as applicable collateral value, historical loss and recovery rates for similar transactions, and our collection capabilities. Our internal risk ratings process and the models we use are subject to regular monitoring and validation controls. The frequency of rating updates is set by our credit risk policy, which requires annual Audit Committee approval. The models are updated on a regular basis and statistically validated annually, or more frequently as circumstances warrant.
GE 2010 ANNUAL REPORT 117
NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS The table below summarizes our Commercial financing receiv-ables by risk category. As described above, financing receivables are assigned one of twenty-one risk ratings based on our process and then these are grouped by similar characteristics into three categories in the table below. Category A is characterized by either high credit quality borrowers or transactions with signifi-cant collateral coverage which substantially reduces or eliminates the risk of loss in the event of borrower default. Category B is characterized by borrowers with weaker credit quality than those in Category A, or transactions with moderately strong collateral coverage which minimizes but may not fully mitigate the risk of loss in the event of default. Category C is characterized by bor-rowers with higher levels of default risk relative to our overall portfolio or transactions where collateral coverage may not fully mitigate a loss in the event of default.
COMMERCIAL Secured December 31. 2010 (In millions)
A 8
C Total CLL Americas
$ 76,977
$4,103
$5,516 $ 86,596 Europe 33,642 840 1,262 35,744 Asia 10,777 199 766 11,742 Other 2,506 66 54 2,626 Total CLL 123,902 5,208 7,598 136,708 Energy Financial Services 6,775 183 53 7,011 GECAS 12,089 277 249 12,615 Other 1,788 1,788 Total
$144,554
$5,668
$7,900 $158,122 such, these loans are not necessarily classified as nonearning or impaired.
At December 31, 2010, our unsecured Commercial financing receivables portfolio of $208 million, $964 million and $783 million was rated A, B and C, respectively. Substantially all of these financ-ing receivables are attributable to our Interbanca S.p.A. and GE Sanyo Credit acquisitions in Europe and Asia, respectively.
Real Estate Our real estate portfolio primarily comprises fixed and floating loans secured by commercial real estate. Our Debt portfolio is underwritten based on the cash flows generated by underlying income-producing commercial properties and secured by first.
mortgages. Our Business properties portfolio is underwritten primarily by the credit quality of the borrower and secured by tenant and owner-occupied commercial properties.
FINANCING RECEIVABLES AND ALLOWANCE FOR LOSSES The following table provides further information about general and specific reserves related to Real Estate financing receivables.
REAL ESTATE Financing receivables at December 31, January 1, December 31, (In millions) 2010 2 0 1 01a) 2009 Debt
$30,249
$36,257
$36,565 Business properties 9,962 12,416 8,276 Total Real Estate financing receivables, before allowance for losses
$40,211
$48,673
$44,841 Non-impaired financing receivables
$30,394
$42,050
$38,323 General reserves 338 498 477 Impaired loans 9,817 6,623 6,518 Specific reserves 1,150 1,038 1,017 (a) Reflects the effects of our adoption of ASU 2009-16 & 17 on January 1, 2010.
PAST DUE FINANCING RECEIVABLES The following table displays payment performance of Real Estate financing receivables.
REAL ESTATE 2010 2009 Over 30 days Over 90 days Over 30 days Over 90 days December 31 past due past due past due past due Debt 4.3%
4.1%
4.3%
3.0%
Business properties 4.6 3.9 4.4 3.8 Total 4.4 4.0 4.3 3.1 For our secured financing receivables portfolio, our collateral position and ability to Work out problem accounts mitigates our losses. Our asset managers have deep industry expertise that enables us to identify the optimum approach to default situa-tions. We price risk premiums for weaker credits at origination, closely monitor changes in creditworthiness through our risk ratings and watch list process, and are engaged early with dete-riorating credits to minimize economic loss. Secured financing receivables within risk Category C are predominantly in our CLL businesses and primarily comprises senior term lending facilities and factoring programs secured by various asset types including inventory, accounts receivable, cash, equipment and related business facilities as well as franchise finance activities secured by underlying equipment.
Loans within Category C are reviewed and monitored regularly, and classified as impaired when it is probable that they will not pay in accordance with contractual terms. Our internal risk rating process identifies credits warranting closer monitoring; and as 118 GE 2010 ANNUAL REPORT
NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS NONACCRUAL FINANCING RECEIVABLES The following tableprovides further information about Real Estate financing receivables that are classified as nonaccrual. Of our $9,719 mil-lion of nonaccrual financing receivables at December 31, 2010, $7,888 million are currently paying in accordance with their contractual terms.
REAL ESTATE
[Dollars in millions)
Debt Business properties Total Allowance for losses percentage Nonaccrual financing receivables at December 31, January 1, December 31, 2010 2010(a) 2009
$9,039
$6,342
$6,649 680 493 388
$9,719
$6,835
$7,037 15.3%
" 22.5%
21.2%
Nonearning financing receivables at December 31, January 1, December 31, 2010 2 0 10(a) 2009
$ 961
$ 939
$ 939 386 419 313
$1,347
$1,358
$1,252 110.5%
113.1%
119.3%
(a) Reflects the effects of our adoption of ASU 2009-16 & 17 on January 1, 2010.
IMPAIRED LOANS The following table provides information about loans classified as impaired and specific reserves related to Real Estate.
REAL ESTATE(a)
December 31. 2010 (In millions)
Debt Business properties Total With no specific allowance Recorded Unpaid Average investment principal investment in loans balance in loans
$2,814
$2,873
$1,598 191 213 141
$3,005
$3,086
$1,739 Recorded investment in loans
$6,323 489
$6,812 With a specific allowance Unpaid principal Associated balance allowance
$6,498
$1,007 476 143
$6,974
$1,150 Average investment in loans
$6,116 382
$6,498 (a) We recognized $189 million of interest income for the year ended December 31, 2010, principally on a cash basis. A substantial majority of this amount related to our Real Estate-Debt business.
CREDIT QUALITY INDICATORS Due to the primarily non-recourse nature of our Debt portfolio, loan-to-value ratios provide the best indicators of the credit quality of the portfolio. By contrast, the credit quality of the Business properties portfolio is primarily influenced by the strength of the borrower's general credit quality, which is reflected in our internal risk rating process, consistent with the process we use for our Commercial portfolio.
Loan-to-value ratio Less than 80% to Greater than 80%
95%
95%
December 31, 2010 (In millions)
Debt
$12,362
$9,392
$8,495 Internal risk rating December 31, 2010 (In millions)
A B
C Business properties
$ 8,746
$ 437
$ 779 with loan-to-value ratios greater than 95% are paying in accor-dance with contractual terms. Substantially all of these loans and substantially all of the Real Estate-Business properties financing receivables included in Category C are impaired loans which are subject to the specific reserve evaluation process described in Note 1. The ultimate recoverability of impaired loans is driven by collection strategies that do not necessarily depend on the sale of the underlying collateral and include full or partial repayments through third-party refinancing and restructurings.
Consumer Our Consumer portfolio is largely non-U.S. and primarily comprises residential mortgage, sales finance, and auto and personal loans in various European and Asian countries. At December 31, 2010, our U.S. consumer financing receivables included private-label credit card and sales financing for over 51 million customers across the U.S. with no metropolitan area accounting for more than 6% of the portfolio. Of the total U.S. consumer financing receivables, approxi-mately 63% relate to credit card loans, which are often subject to profit and loss sharing arrangements with the retailer (which are recorded in revenues), and the remaining 37% are sales finance receivables, which provide financing to customers in areas such as electronics, recreation, medical and home improvement.
Within Real Estate, these financing receivables are primarily concentrated in our North American and European Lending platforms and are secured by various property types. Collateral values for Real Estate-Debt financing receivables are updated at least semi-annually, or more frequently for higher risk loans. A substantial majority of the Real Estate-Debt financing receivables GE 2010 ANNUAL REPORT 119
NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS FINANCING RECEIVABLES AND ALLOWANCE FOR LOSSES The following table provides further information about general and specific reserves related to Consumer financing receivables.
CONSUMER(a)
Financing receivables at December 31, January 1.
December 31, (In millionsl 2010 2 0 1 0 (b) 2009 Non-U.S. residential mortgages
$ 45,536
$ 54,921
$ 54,921 Non-U.S. installment and revolving credit 20,368 23,443 23,443 U.S. installment and revolving credit 43,974 44,008 20,027 Non-U.S. auto 8,877 12,762 12,762 Other 8,306 10,156 10,156 Total Consumer financing receivables, before allowance for losses
$127,061
$145,290
$121,309 Non-impaired financing receivables
$124,507
$143,593
$119,976 General reserves 3,984 5,488 3,952 Impaired loans 2,554 1,697 1,333 Specific reserves 555 301 235 (a) During the first quarter of 2010, we transferred the Consumer business in Italy from Consumer to CLL. Prior-period amounts were reclassified to conform to the current-period presentation.
(b) Reflects the effects of our adoption of ASU 2009-16 & 17 on January 1. 2010.
IMPAIRED LOANS The vast majority of our Consumer nonaccrual financing receiv-ables are smaller-balance homogeneous loans evaluated collectively, by portfolio, for impairment and therefore are outside the scope of the disclosure requirement for impaired loans.
Accordingly, impaired loans in our Consumer business represent restructured smaller-balance homogeneous loans meeting the definition of a TDR, and therefore subject to the disclosure requirement for impaired loans, and commercial loans in our Consumer-Other portfolio. The recorded investment of these impaired loans totaled $2,554 million (with an unpaid principal balance of $2,244 million) and comprised $106 million with no specific allowance, primarily all in our Consumer-Other portfolio, and $2,448 million with a specific allowance of $555 million at December 31, 2010. The impaired loans with a specific allowance included $428 million with a specific allowance of $114 million in our Consumer-Other portfolio and $2,020 million with a specific allowance of $441 million across the remaining Consumer busi-ness and had an unpaid principal balance and average investment of $2,139 million and $1,771 million, respectively, at December 31, 2010. We recognized $115 million of interest income for the year ended December 31, 2010, principally on a cash basis. A substan-tial majority of this amount related to income recognized in our Consumer-U.S. installment and revolving credit business.
PAST DUE FINANCING RECE The following table display financing receivables.
CONSUMER December 31 Non-U.S. residential mortgages Non-U.S. installment and revolving credit U.S. installment and revolving credit Non-U.S. auto Other Total Over pa IVMMLrD CREDIT QUALITY INDICATORS s payment performance of Consumer Our Consumer financing receivables portfolio comprises both secured and unsecured lending. Secured financing receivables comprise residential loans and lending to small and medium-2010 2009 sized enterprises predominantly secured by auto and equipment, 30 days Over 90 days Over 30 days Over 90 days inventory finance, and cash flow loans. Unsecured financing st due past duela) past due past duela) receivables include private-label credit card financing. A substan-13.3%
8.4%
13.5%
8.3%
tial majority of these cards are not for general use and are limited to the products and services sold by the retailer. The private-label 4.5 1.3 5.4 1.8 portfolio is diverse, with no metropolitan area accounting for more than 6% of the related portfolio.
6.2 2.8 9.0 4.3 3.2 0.5 3.3 0.5 4.2 2.3 5.4 3.0 8.1 4.4 9.4 5.1 (a) Included $268 million and $236 million of loans at December 31, 2010 and 2009, respectively, which are over 90 days past due and accruing interest. A substantial majority of these loans are covered by third-party mortgage insurance, which provide for payment of principal and interest on the underlying loan.
NONACCRUAL FINANCING RECEIVABLES The following table provides further information about Consumer financing receivables that are classified as nonaccrual.
CONSUMERIa)
(Dollars in millions)
Non-U.S. residential mortgages Non-U.S. installment and revolving credit U.S, installment and revolving credit Non-U.S. auto Other Nonaccrual financing receivables at December 31, January 1. December 31.
2010 2010(b) 2009
$4,059
$4,352
$4,352 303 423 423 1,201 1,624
-832 48 78 78 600 630 630
$6,211
$7,107
$6,315 73.1%
81.5%
66.3°/
Nonearning financing receivables at December 31, January 1, December 31, 2010 2 010(b) 2009
$3,812
$4,331
$4,331 290 409 409 1,201 1,624 832 48 66 66 478 610 610
$5,829
$7,040
$6,248 77.9%
82.2%
67.0%
Total Allowance for losses percentage (a) During the first quarter of 2010, we transferred the Consumer business in Italy from Consumer to CLL. Prior-period amounts were reclassified to conform to the current-period presentation.
IbN Reflects the effects of our adoption of ASU 2009-16 & 17 on January 1, 2010.
120 GE 2010 ANNUAL REPORT
NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS NON-U.S. RESIDENTIAL MORTGAGES For our secured non-U.S. residential mortgage book, we assess the overall credit quality of the portfolio through loan-to-value ratios (the ratio of the outstanding debt on a property to the value of that property at origination). In the event of default and repos-session of the underlying collateral, we have the ability to remarket and sell the properties to eliminate or mitigate the potential risk of loss. The table below provides additional information about our non-U.S. residential mortgages based on loan-to-value ratios.
Loan-to-value ratio 80% or Greater than Greater than less 80% to 90%
90%
$25,393
$7,515
$12,628 December 31, 2010 (In millions)
Non-U.S. residential mortgages The majority of these financing receivables are in our U.K. and France portfolios and have re-indexed loan-to-value ratios of 83%
and 60%, respectively. We have third-party mortgage insurance for approximately 73% of the balance of Consumer non-U.S.
residential mortgage loans with loan-to-value ratios greater than 90% at December 31, 2010. Such loans were primarily originated in the U.K. and France.
INSTALLMENT AND REVOLVING CREDIT For our unsecured lending products, including the non-U.S. and U.S. installment and revolving credit and non-U.S. auto portfolios, we assess overall credit quality using internal and external credit scores. Our internal credit scores imply a probability of default, which we consistently translate into three approximate credit bureau equivalent credit score categories, including (a) 681 or higher, which are considered the strongest credits; (b) 615 to 680, considered moderate credit risk; and Ic) 614 or less, which are considered weaker credits.
Internal ratings translated to approximate credit bureau equivalent score 68E or 615 to 614 or December 31, 2010 (In millions) higher 680 less Non-U.S. installment and revolving credit
$10,298
$5,859
$4,211 U.S. installment and revolving credit 25,940 8,846 9,188 Non-U.S. auto 6,397 1,551 929 Of those financing receivable accounts with credit bureau equiva-lent scores of 614 or less at December 31, 2010, 94% and 6%
relate to installment and revolving credit accounts and non-U.S.
auto accounts, respectively. These smaller-balance accounts have an average outstanding balance less than one thousand U.S. dol-lars and are primarily concentrated in our retail card and sales finance receivables in the U.S. (which are often subject to profit and loss sharing arrangements), and closed-end loans outside the U.S., which minimizes the potential for loss in the event of default.
For lower credit scores, we adequately price for the incremental risk at'origination and monitor credit migration through our risk ratings process. We continuously adjust our credit line underwrit-ing management and collection strategies based on customer behavior and risk profile changes. During 2008 through 2010, we strengthened our underwriting processes by actively reducing credit lines and approval rates, along with increasing our collection efforts to mitigate the potential risk of loss in these portfolios and we have experienced an improvement in nonearn-ing assets.
CONSUMER-OTHER Secured lending in Consumer-Other comprises loans to small and medium-sized enterprises predominantly secured by auto and equipment, inventory finance, and cash flow loans. We develop our internal risk ratings for this portfolio in a manner consistent with the process used to develop our Commercial credit quality indica-tors, described above. We use the borrower's credit quality and underlying collateral strength to determine the potential risk of loss from these activities.
At December 31, 2010, Consumer-Other financing receivables of $6,417 million, $822 million and $1,067 million were rated A, B, and C, respectively.
Note 24.
Variable Interest Entities We securitize financial assets and arrange other forms of asset-backed financing in the ordinary course of business. These transactions are similar to those used by many financial institu-tions. Beyond improving returns, these transactions serve as alternative funding sources for a variety of diversified lending and securities transactions. Historically, we have used both GE-supported and third-party VIEs to execute off-balance sheet securitization transactions funded in the commercial paper and term markets. The largest group of VIEs that we are involved with are former QSPEs, which under guidance in effect through December 31, 2009 were excluded from the scope of consolida-tion standards based on their characteristics. Except as noted below, investors in these entities only have recourse to the assets owned by the entity and not to our general credit. We do not have implicit support arrangements with any VIE. We did not provide non-contractual support for previously transferred financing receivables to any VIE in 2010 or 2009.
On January 1, 2010, we adopted ASU 2009-16 & 17, which amended ASC 860, Transfers and Servicing, and ASC 810, Consolidation, respectively. These amendments eliminated the scope exception for QSPEs and required that all such entities be evaluated for consolidation as VIEs, which resulted in the consoli-dation of all of our sponsored QSPEs. Among other changes, the amendments to ASC 810 replaced the existing quantitative approach for identifying the party that should consolidate a VIE, which was based on exposure to a majority of the risks and rewards, with a qualitative approach, based on determination of which party has the power to direct the most economically sig-nificant activities of the entity. The revised guidance will sometimes change the composition of entities that meet the definition of a VIE and the determination about which party should consolidate a VIE, as well as requiring the latter to be evaluated continuously.
In evaluating whether we have the power to direct, as defined in the standard, we consider the purpose for which the VIE was created, the importance of each of the activities in which it is engaged and our decision-making role, if any, in those activities GE 2010 ANNUAL REPORT 121
NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS that significantly determine the entity's economic performance as compared to other economic interest holders. This evaluation requires consideration of all facts and circumstances relevant to decision-making that affects the entity's future performance and the exercise of professional judgment in deciding which decision-making rights are most important.
In determining whether we have the right to receive benefits or the obligation to absorb losses that could potentially be signifi-cant to the VIE, we evaluate all of our economic interests in the entity, regardless of form (debt, equity, management and servic-ing fees, and other contractual arrangements). This evaluation considers all relevant factors of the entity's design, including: the entity's capital structure, contractual rights to earnings (losses),
subordination of our interests relative to those of other investors, contingent payments, as well as other contractual arrangements that have potential to be economically significant. The evaluation of each of these factors in reaching a conclusion about the poten-tial significance of our economic interests is a matter that requires the exercise of professional judgment.
As of January 1, 2010 and subsequently, we evaluated all entities that fall within the scope of the amended ASC 810 to determine whether we were required to consolidate or deconsoli-date them based on the approach described above. In addition to the securitization QSPEs described above, we were required to consolidate assets of VIEs related to direct investments in entities that hold loans and fixed income securities, a media joint venture and a small number of companies to which we have extended loans in the ordinary course of business and have subsequently been subject to a TDR. The incremental effect of these entities on our total assets and liabilities, net of our investment in them, was an increase of approximately $31,097 million and $33,042 million, respectively, at January 1, 2010. There also was a net reduction of total equity lincluding noncontrolling interests) of approximately
$1,945 million at January 1, 2010, principally related to the rever-sal of previously recognized securitization gains as a cumulative effect adjustment to retained earnings.
The assets of QSPEs that we consolidated were $29,792 mil-lion, net of our existing retained interests of $8,782 million, and liabilities were $31,616 million at January 1, 2010. Significant assets of the QSPEs included net financing receivables and trade receivables of $39,463 million and investment securities of
$1,015 million at January 1, 2010. Significant liabilities included non-recourse borrowings of $36,112 million. The assets and liabilities of other VIEs we consolidated were $1,305 million and $1,426 million, respectively.
Consolidated Variable Interest Entities We consolidate VIEs because we have the power to direct the activities that significantly affect the VIEs' economic performance, typically because of our role as either servicer or manager for the VIE. Our consolidated VIEs fall into three main groups, which are further described below:
Trinity is a group of sponsored special purpose entities that holds investment securities, the majority of which are invest-ment grade, and are funded by the issuance of GICs. These entities were consolidated in 2003, and ceased issuing new investment contracts beginning in the first quarter of 2010.
If the long-term credit rating of GECC were to fall below AA-/
Aa3 or its short-term credit rating were to fall below A-1+/P-1, GECC would be required to provide approximately $1,508 mil-lion to such entities as of December 31, 2010 pursuant to letters of credit issued by GECC. To the extent that the entities' liabilities exceed the ultimate value of the proceeds from the sale of their assets and the amount drawn under the letters of credit, GECC is required to provide such excess amount. As the borrowings of these entities are already reflected in our con-solidated Statement of Financial Position, there would be no change in our debt if this were to occur. As of December 31, 2010, the carrying value of the liabilities of these entities' was
$5,690 million and the fair value of their assets was $5,989 mil-lion (which included net unrealized losses on investment securities of $690 millionl. With respect to these investment securities, we intend to hold them at least until such time as their individual fair values exceed their amortized cost. We have the ability to hold all such debt securities until maturity.
Securitization QSPEs comprise previously off-book QSPEs that were consolidated on January 1, 2010 in connection with our adoption of ASU 2009-16 & 17. These entities were created to facilitate securitization of financial assets and other forms of asset-backed financing which serve as an alternative funding source by providing access to the commercial paper and term markets. The securitization transactions executed with these entities are similar to those used by many financial institutions and substantially all are non-recourse. We provide servicing for substantially all of the assets in these entities.
The financing receivables in these entities have similar risks and characteristics to our other financing receivables and were underwritten to the same standard. Accordingly, the performance of these assets has been similar to our other financing receivables; however, the blended performance of the pools of receivables in these entities reflects the eligibility criteria that we apply to determine which receivables are selected for transfer. Contractually the cash flows from these financing receivables must first be used to pay third-party debt holders as well asother expenses of the entity. Excess cash flows are available to GE. The creditors of these entities have no claim on other assets of GE.
Other remaining assets and liabilities of consolidated VIEs relate primarily to five categories of entities: (1) enterprises we acquired that had previously created asset-backed financing entities to fund commercial real estate, middle-market and equipment loans; we are the collateral manager for these entities; (2)joint ventures that lease light industrial equipment and that hold a limited partnership interest in certain media properties; (3) entities that have executed on-balance sheet securitizations of financial assets and of third-party trade receivables; 14) insurance entities that, among other lines of business, provide property and casualty and workers' compen-sation coverage for GE; and (5) other entities that are involved in power generating, leasing and real estate activities.
122 GE 2010 ANNUAL REPORT
NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS The table below summarizes the assets and liabilities of consolidated VIEs described above.
Consolidated Liquidating Securitizat ion Securitizat ion (In millionsl Trinity(a)
Entitieslal QSPEs 0
b)(c)
Other(c)
Total DECEMBER 31, 2010 ASSETS Financing receivables, net
$33,997
$ 5,475
$39,472 Investment securities 5,706 964 6,670 Other assets(dl 283 520 3,711 4,514 Total
$5,989
$34,517
$10,150
$50,656 LIABILITIES Borrowingsid) 210 948
$ 1,158 Non-recourse borrowings of consolidated securitization entities 26,554 2,890 29,444 Other liabilities(d) 5,690 123 1,882 7,695 Total
$5,690
$26,887
$ 5,720
$38,297 DECEMBER 31, 2009 ASSETS Financing receivables, net
$2,576
$ 4,277
$ 6,853 Investment securities 6,629 944 7,573 Other assetsid) 716 32 1,820 2,568 Total
$7,345
$2,608
$ 7,041
$16,994 LIABILITIES Borrowings(d)
$ 1,835
$ 1,835 Non-recourse borrowings of consolidated securitization entities 2,424 684 3,108 Other liabilitiesldi 8,519 80 1,689 10,288 Total
$8,519
$2,504
$ 4,208
$15,231 la) Entities consolidated on July 1, 2003 or January 1, 2004 as a result of amendments to U.S. GAAP. During 2010, the capital structure of the consolidated liquidating securitization entities changed and they are now consolidated under the voting interest model.
(bI Entities consolidated on January 1, 2010 by the initial application of ASU 2009-16 & 17.
(c) In certain transactions entered into prior to December 31, 2004, we provided contractual credit and liquidity support to third parties who funded the purchase of securitized or participated interests in assets. We have not entered into additional arrangements since that date. Liquidity and credit support was $936 million at December 31, 2010 and
$2,088 million at December 31, 2009.
(d) Other assets, borrowings and other liabilities exclude intercompany balances that are eliminated in consolidation.
GECS revenues from services from our consolidated VIEs were $6,914 million in 2010. Related expenses consisted primarily of provisions for losses of $1,596 million and interest and other financial charges of $767 million in 2010. These amounts do not include intercompany revenues and costs, principally fees and interest between GE and the VIEs, which are eliminated in consolidation.
The gross financing receivables and outstanding debt, which is substantially all non-recourse, in Securitization QSPEs at December 31, 2010 and December 31, 2009 is provided below.
Credit card (In millions) receivables Real estate Equipmentlal Otherlb)
Total DECEMBER 31, 2010 Asset amount outstanding
$21,636
$4,433
$ 7,645
$1,981
$35,695 Outstanding debt 12,824 4,301 6,669 2,970 26,764 DECEMBER 31, 2009 Asset amount outstanding
$25,573
$7,381
$10,414
$3,528
$46,896 Outstanding debt 18,799 7,367 9,312 4,206 39,684 (a) Included floorplan receivables.
(b) Asset amounts exclude intercompany receivables for cash collected on behalf of the entities by GE as servicer, which are eliminated in consolidation. Such receivables provide the cash to repay the entities' liabilities. If these intercompany receivables were included in the table above, assets would exceed the outstanding debt shown.
GE 2010 ANNUAL REPORT 123
NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS Investments in Unconsolidated Variable Interest Entities Our involvement with unconsolidated VIEs consists of the follow-ing activities: assisting in the formation and financing of the entity, providing recourse and/or liquidity support, servicing the assets and receiving variable fees for services provided. We are not required to consolidate these entities because the nature of our involvement with the activities of the VIEs does not give us power over decisions that significantly affect their economic performance.
Unconsolidated VIEs at December 31,2010 include our non-controlling stake in PTL ($5,790 million); investments in real estate entities ($2,071 million), which generally consist of passive limited partnership investments in tax-advantaged, multi-family real estate and investments in various European real estate entities; debt investment fund ($1,877 million); and exposures tojoint ventures that purchase factored receivables ($1,596 million). Substantially all of our other unconsolidated entities consist of passive investments in various asset-backed financing entities.
The largest unconsolidated VIE with which we are involved is PTL, which is a truck rental and leasing joint venture. The total consolidated assets and liabilities of PTL at December 31,2008 were
$7,444 million and $1,339 million, respectively. As part of our strategy to reduce our investment in the equipment management market, we reduced our partnership interest in PTL from 79% at December 31, 2005 to 50.9% at December 31,2008 through a series of dispositions to Penske Truck Leasing Corporation (PTLCI, the general partner of PTL, and an entity affiliated with PTLC. In addition, in the first quarter of 2009, we sold a 1% partnership interest in PTL, a previously con-solidated VIE, to PTLC. The disposition of this partnership interest, coupled with our resulting minority position on the PTL advisory committee and related changes in our contractual rights, resulted in the deconsolidation of PTL. We recognized a pre-tax gain on the sale of $296 million, including a gain on the remeasurement of our retained investment of $189 million. The transaction price was determined on an arm's-length basis and GE obtained a fairness opinion from a third-party financial advisor because of the related-party nature of the transaction. The measurement of the fair value of our retained investment in PTL was based on a methodology that incorporated both discounted cash flow information and market data. In applying this methodology, we utilized different sources of information, including actual operating results, future business plans, economic projections and market observable pricing multiples of similar businesses. The resulting fair value of our retained interest reflected our position as a noncontrolling shareowner at the conclu-sion of the transaction. At December 31, 2010, our remaining investment in PTL of $5,790 million comprised a 49.9% partnership interest of $935 million and loans and advances of $4,855 million.
GECC continues to provide loans under long-term revolving credit and letter of credit facilities to PTL.
The classification of our variable interests in these entities in our financial statements is based on the nature of the entity and the type of investment we hold. Variable interests in partnerships and corporate entities are classified as either equity method or cost method investments. In the ordinary course of business, we also make investments in entities in which we are not the primary ben-eficiary but may hold a variable interest such as limited partner interests or mezzanine debt investments. These investments are classified in two captions in our financial statements: "All other assets" for investments accounted for under the equity method, and "Financing receivables-net" for debt financing provided to these entities. Our investments in unconsolidated VIEs at December 31, 2010 and 2009 follow.
(In millions)
Other assets and investment securities Financing receivables-net At December31, December31, 2010 2009
$10,375
$ 8,911 2,240 769 Total investment 12,615 9,680
- Contractual obligations to fund new investments 1,990 1,396 Total
$14,605
$11,076 In addition to the entities included in the table above, we also hold passive investments in RMBS, CMBS and ABS issued by VIEs. Such investments were, by design, investment grade at issuance and held by a diverse group of investors. Further information about such investments is provided in Note 3.
Note 25.
Commitments and Guarantees Commitments In our Aviation business of Technology Infrastructure, we had committed to provide financing assistance on $1,128 million of future customer acquisitions of aircraft equipped with our engines, including commitments made to airlines in 2010 for future sales under our GE90 and GEnx engine campaigns. The GECAS business of GE Capital had placed multiple-year orders for various Boeing, Airbus and other aircraft with list prices approxi-mating $14,574 million and secondary orders with airlines for used aircraft of approximately $790 million at December 31, 2010.
As of December 31, 2010, NBC Universal had certain commit-ments to acquire film and television programming. On January 28, 2011, we transferred the NBCU business to a newly formed entity and, as a result, these commitments are no longer ours. See
'Note 2 for further discussion of the NBCU transaction.
124 GE 2010 ANNUAL REPORT
NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS Product Warranties We provide for estimated product warranty expenses, when we sell the related products. Because warranty estimates are fore-casts that are based on the best available information-mostly historical claims experience-claims costs may differ from amounts provided. An analysis of changes in the liability for product warranties follows.
(In millions) 2010 2009 2008 Balance at January 1
$1,641
$1,675
$1,541 Current-year provisions 583 780 1,038 Expenditures(a)
(710)
(794)
(917)
Other changes (17)
(20) 13 Balance at December 31
$1,497
$1,641
$1,675 (a) Primarily related to Technology Infrastructure and Energy Infrastructure.
Guarantees At December 31, 2010, we were committed under the following guarantee arrangements beyond those provided on behalf of QSPEs and VIEs. See Note 24.
- CREDIT SUPPORT. We have provided $8,327 million of credit support on behalf of certain customers or associated compa-nies, predominantly joint ventures and partnerships, using arrangements such as standby letters of credit and perfor-mance guarantees. These arrangements enable these customers and associated companies to execute transactions or obtain desired financing arrangements with third parties.
Should the customer or associated company fail to perform under the terms of the transaction or financing arrangement, we would be required to perform on their behalf. Under most such arrangements, our guarantee is secured, usually by the asset being purchased or financed, or possibly by certain other assets of the customer or associated company. The length of these credit support arrangements parallels the length of the related financing arrangements or transactions. The liability for such credit support was $53 million at December 31, 2010.
" INDEMNIFICATION AGREEMENTS. These are agreements that require us to fund up to $228 million at December 31, 2010 under residual value guarantees on a variety of leased equipment.
Under most of our residual value guarantees, our commitment is secured by the leased asset. The liability for these indemnifi-cation agreements was $47 million at December 31, 2010. We also had $2,502 million of other indemnification commitments, substantially all of which relate to standard representations and warranties in sales of businesses or assets.
CONTINGENTCONSIDERATION. These are agreements to provide additional consideration to a buyer or seller in a business combination if contractually specified conditions related to the acquisition or disposition are achieved. Adjustments to the proceeds from our sale of GE Money Japan are further dis-cussed in Note 2. All other potential payments related to contingent consideration are insignificant.
Our guarantees are provided in the ordinary course of business.
We underwrite these guarantees considering economic, liquidity and credit risk of the counterparty. We believe that the likelihood is remote that any such arrangements could have a significant adverse effect on our financial position, results of operations or liquidity. We record liabilities for guarantees at estimated fair value, generally the amount of the premium received, or if we do not receive a premium, the amount based on appraisal, observed market values or discounted cash flows. Any associated expected recoveries from third parties are recorded as other receivables, not netted against the liabilities.
Note 26.
Supplemental Cash Flows Information Changes in operating assets and liabilities are net of acquisitions and dispositions of principal businesses.
Amounts reported in the "Payments for principal businesses purchased" line in the Statement of Cash Flows is net of cash acquired and included debt assumed and immediately repaid in acquisitions.
Amounts reported in the "All other operating activities" line in the Statement of Cash Flows consists primarily of adjustments to current and noncurrent accruals and deferrals of costs and expenses, adjustments for gains and losses on assets and adjust-ments to assets. GECS had non-cash transactions related to foreclosed properties and repossessed assets totaling $1,915 mil-lion and $1,364 million in 2010 and 2009, respectively. In 2008, GE received $300 million (12.7 million shares) worth of its shares in connection with the disposition of NBC Universal's 57% interest in the Sundance Channel.
GE 2010 ANNUAL REPORT 125
NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS Certain supplemental information related to GE and GECS cash flows is shown below.
December 31 (In millions) 2010 2009 2008 GE NET DISPOSITIONS (PURCHASES) OF GE SHARES FOR TREASURY Open market purchases under share repurchase program (1,715)
(85)
(3,222)
Other purchases (77)
(129)
(286)
Dispositions 529 837 2,259 (1,263) 623 (1,249)
GECS ALL OTHER OPERATING ACTIVITIES Net change in other assets 28 (344)
(1,370)
Amortization of intangible assets 654 906 981 Realized losses on investment securities 91 473 1,260 Cash collateral on derivative contracts (6,858) 7,769 Change in other liabilities (3,397)
(4,919)
(3,238)
Other 4,486 578 3,248 1,862
$ (10,164) 8,650 NET DECREASE (INCREASE) IN GECS FINANCING RECEIVABLES Increase in loans to customers
$(310,581)
$(278,536)
$(409,308)
Principal collections from customers-loans 331,214 283,7,43 361,384 Investment in equipment for financing leases (10,225)
(9,509)
(21,671)
Principal collections from customers-financing leases 15,118 17,460 20,159 Net change in credit card receivables (4,559)
(28,534)
(34,691)
Sales of financing receivables 5,331 58,555 67,093
$ 26,298
$ 43,179
$ (17,034)
ALL OTHER INVESTING ACTIVITIES Purchases of securities by insurance activities (1,712)
(3,106)
(4,190)
Dispositions and maturities of securities by insurance activities 3,136 3,962 4,690 Other assets--investments 2,690 (258)
(228)
Change in other receivables 482 821 3,313 Other 2,805 (2,655) 2,867 7,401 (1,236) 6,452 NEWLY ISSUED DEBT (MATURITIES LONGER THAN 90 DAYS)
Short-term (91 to 365 days) 2,496 5,801
$ 34,445 Long-term (longer than one year) 35,474 75,216 81,614 Proceeds-non-recourse, leveraged leases 48 113
$ 37,970
$ 81,065
$116,172 REPAYMENTS AND OTHER REDUCTIONS (MATURITIES LONGER THAN 90 DAYS)
Short-term (91 to 365 days)
$ (95,170)
$ (77,444)
$ (65,958)
Long-term (longer than one year)
(1,792)
(5,217)
(462)
Principal payments-non-recourse, leveraged leases (638)
(680)
(637)
$ (97,600)
$ (83,341)
$ (67,057)
ALL OTHER FINANCING ACTIVITIES Proceeds from sales of investment contracts 5,339 7,840
$ 11,433 Redemption of investment contracts (8,647)
(10,713)
(13,304)
Other (9) 182 9
(3,317)
(2,691)
(1,862) 126 GE 2010 ANNUAL REPORT
NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS Note 27.
Intercompany Transactions Effects of transactions between related companies are made on an arms-length basis, are eliminated and consist primarily of GECS dividends to GE or capital contributions from GE to GECS; GE customer receivables sold to GECS; GECS services for trade receivables management and material procurement; buildings and equipment (including automobiles) leased between GE and GECS; information technology (IT) and other services sold to GECS by GE; aircraft engines manufactured by GE that are installed on aircraft purchased by GECS from third-party producers for lease to others; and various investments, loans and allocations of GE corporate overhead costs.
These intercompany transactions are reported in the GE and GECS columns of our financial statements, but are eliminated in deriving our consolidated financial statements. Effects of these eliminations on our consolidated cash flows from operating, investing and financing activities include the following. Net decrease (increase) in GE customer receivables sold to GECS of
$81 million, $(157) million and $90 million have been eliminated from consolidated cash from operating and investing activities at December 31, 2010, 2009 and 2008, respectively. Capital contribu-tions from GE to GECS of $9,500 million and $5,500 million have been eliminated from consolidated cash from investing and financing activities at December 31, 2009 and 2008, respectively.
There were no such capital contributions at December 31, 2010.
GECS dividends to GE of $2,351 million have been eliminated from consolidated cash from operating and financing activities at December 31, 2008. There were no such dividends at Decem-ber 31, 2010 and 2009, respectively. Eliminations of intercompany borrowings (includes GE investment in GECS short-term borrow-ings, such as commercial paper) of $293 million, $715 million and
$(471) million have been eliminated from financing activities at December 31, 2010, 2009 and 2008, respectively. Other reclassifi-cations and eliminations of $1205) million, $741 million and
$(188) million have been eliminated from consolidated cash from operating activities and $107 million, $(817) million and $(320) mil-lion have been eliminated from consolidated cash from investing activities at December 31, 2010, 2009 and 2008, respectively.
Note 28.
Operating Segments Basis for Presentation Our operating businesses are organized based on the nature of markets and customers. Segment accounting policies are the same as described in Note 1. Segment results for our financial services businesses reflect the discrete tax effect of transactions.
Effective January 1, 2010, we reorganized our segments to better align our Consumer & Industrial and Energy businesses for growth. As a result of this reorganization, we created a new segment called Home & Business Solutions that includes the Appliances and Lighting businesses from our previous Consumer &
Industrial segment and the retained portion of the GE Fanuc Intelligent Platforms business of our previous Enterprise Solutions business (formerly within our Technology Infrastructure segment).
In addition, the Industrial business of our previous Consumer &
Industrial segment and the Sensing & Inspection Technologies and Digital Energy businesses of Enterprise Solutions are now part of the Energy business within the Energy Infrastructure segment. The Security business of Enterprise Solutions is reported in Corporate Items and Eliminations prior to its sale in the first quarter of 2010.
Also, effective January 1, 2010, the Capital Finance segment was renamed GE Capital and includes all of the continuing operations of General Electric Capital Corporation. In addition, the Transportation Financial Services business, previously reported in GECAS, is included in CLL and our Consumer business in Italy, previously reported in Consumer, is included in CLL.
A description of our operating segments as of December 31, 2010, can be found below, and details of segment profit by oper-ating segment can be found in the Summary of Operating Segments table in Management's Discussion and Analysis.
Energy Infrastructure Power plant products and services, including design, installation, operation and maintenance services are sold into global markets.
Gas, steam and aeroderivative turbines, generators, combined cycle systems, controls and related services, including total asset optimization solutions, equipment upgrades and long-term main-tenance service agreements are sold to power generation and other industrial customers. Renewable energy solutions include wind turbines and solar technology. Water treatment services and equipment include specialty chemical treatment programs, water purification equipment, mobile treatment systems and desalina-tion processes. Energy offers integrated solutions using sensors for temperature, pressure, moisture, gas and flow rate as well as non-destructive testing inspection equipment, including radio-graphic, ultrasonic, remote visual and eddy current. In addition, it provides protection and control, communications, power sens-ing and power quality products and services that increase the reliability of electrical power networks and critical equipment and offering wireless data transmission. Electrical equipment and control products include power panels, switchgear and circuit breakers.
The Oil & Gas business sells surface and subsea drilling and production systems including blowout preventers, equipment for floating production platforms, compressors, turbines, turbo-expanders and high pressure reactors to national, international and independent oil and gas companies. Services include equip-ment overhauls and upgrades, pipeline inspection and integrity services, remote monitoring and diagnostic, and contractual service agreements.
GE 2010 ANNUAL REPORT 127
NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS Technology Infrastructure Aviation products and services includejet engines, aerospace systems and equipment, replacement parts and repair and maintenance services for all categories of commercial aircraft; for a wide variety of military aircraft, includingfighters, bombers, tankers and helicopters; for marine applications; and for executive and regional aircraft. Products and services are sold worldwide to airframe manufacturers, airlines and government agencies.
Healthcare products include diagnostic imaging systems such as Magnetic Resonance (MRI, Computed Tomography (CTI and Positron Emission Tomography (PET) scanners, X-ray, nuclear imaging, digital mammography, and Molecular Imaging technolo-gies. Healthcare-manufactured technologies include patient and resident monitoring, diagnostic cardiology, ultrasound, bone densitometry, anesthesiology and oxygen therapy, and neonatal and critical care devices. Related services include equipment monitoring and repair, information technologies and customer productivity services. Products also include diagnostic imaging agents used in medical scanning procedures, drug discovery, biopharmaceutical manufacturing and purification, and tools for protein and cellular analysis for pharmaceutical and academic research, including a pipeline of precision molecular diagnostics in development for neurology, cardiology and oncology applica-tions. Products and services are sold worldwide to hospitals, medical facilities, pharmaceutical and biotechnologycompanies, and to the life science research market.
Transportation products and maintenance services include diesel electric locomotives, transit propulsion equipment, motor-ized wheels for off-highway vehicles, gearing technology for wind turbines, drill motors, marine and stationary power generation, railway signaling and office systems.
Effective January 1, 2011, we reorganized the Technology Infrastructure segment into three segments-Aviation, Healthcare and Transportation. Results for 2010 and prior periods are reported on the basis under which we managed our busi-nesses in 2010 and do not reflect the January 1, 2011 reorganization.
NBC Universal Principal businesses are the broadcast of U.S. network television, production and distribution of films and television programs, operation of television stations, operation of cable/satellite televi-sion networks around the world, operation of theme parks, and investment and programming activities in digital media and the Internet.
Prior to September 2010, we owned 80% of NBCU and Vivendi owned 20%. In September 2010, we acquired approximately 38%of Vivendi's 20% ownership interest in NBCU (7.7% of NBCU's outstanding shares). Prior to and in connection with the transac-tion with Comcast, we acquired the remaining Vivendi interest in NBCU (12.3% of NBCU's outstanding shares). On January 28, 2011, we transferred the assets of the NBCU business and Comcast transferred certain of its assets comprising cable networks, regional sports networks, certain digital properties and certain unconsolidated investments to a newly formed entity, NBCU LLC.
In connection with the transaction, we received cash of $6,197 mil-lion from Comcast and a 49% interest in NBCU LLC. Comcast holds the remaining 51% interest in NBCU LLC. We will account for our investment in NBCU LLC under the equity method.
GE Capital CLL products include loans, leases and other financial services to customers, including manufacturers, distributors and end-users for a variety of equipment and major capital assets. These assets include industrial-related facilities and equipment; vehi-cles; corporate aircraft; and equipment used in many industries, including the construction, manufacturing, transportation, media, communications, entertainment and healthcare industries.
Consumeroffers a range of financial products including private-label credit cards; personal loans; bank cards; auto loans and leases; mortgages; debt consolidation; home equity loans; deposits and other savings products; and small and medium enterprise lending on a global basis.
Real Estate offers a comprehensive range of capital and investment solutions and finances, with both equity and loan structures, the acquisition, refinancing and renovation of office buildings, apartment buildings, retail facilities, hotels, parking facilities and industrial properties.
Energy Financial Services offers financial products to the global energy and water industries including structured equity, debt, leasihg, partnership financing, product finance, and broad-based commercial finance.
GECAS provides financial products to airlines, aircraft opera-tors, owners, lenders and investors, including leases, and secured loans on commercial passenger aircraft, freighters and regional jets; engine leasing and financing services; aircraft parts solu-tions; and airport equity and debt financing.
Home & Business Solutions Products include major appliances and related services for prod-ucts such as refrigerators, freezers, electric and gas ranges, cooktops, dishwashers, clothes washers and dryers, microwave ovens, room air conditioners, residential water systems for filtra-tion, softening and heating, and hybrid water heaters. These products are distributed both to retail outlets and direct to con-sumers, mainly for the replacement market, and to building contractors and distributors for new installations. Lighting products include a wide variety of lamps and lighting fixtures, including light-emitting diodes. Plant automation hardware, software and embedded computing systems including control-lers, embedded systems, advanced software, motion control, operator interfaces and industrial computers are also provided by Home & Business Solutions. Products and services are sold in North America and in global markets undervarious GE and private-label brands.
128 GE 2010 ANNUAL REPORT
NOTES TO CONSOUDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS Total revenues(a)
Intersegment revenues(b)
External revenues (In millions) 2010 2009 2008 2010 2009 2008 2010 2009 2008 Energy Infrastructure
$ 37,514
$ 40,648
$ 43,046 316 633
$1,098
$ 37,198
$ 40,015
$ 41,948 Technology Infrastructure 37,860 38,517 41,605 250 304 372 37,610 38,213 41,233 NBC Universal 16,901 15,436 16,969 105 71 89 16,796 15,365 16,880 GE Capital 47,040 49,746 67,645 1,207 1,469 1,708 45,833 48,277 65,937 Home & Business Solutions 8,648 8,443 10,117 49 33 68 8,599 8,410 10,049 Corporate items and eliminations 2,248 2,488 2,199 (1,927)
(2,510)
(3,335) 4,175 4,998 5,534 Total
$150,211
$155,278
$181,581
$150,211
$155,278
$181,581 (a) Revenues of GE businesses include income from sales of goods and services to customers and other income.
(b) Sales from one component to another generally are priced at equivalent commercial selling prices.
Revenues from customers located in the United States were $70,506 million, $72,240 million and $85,012 million in 2010, 2009 and 2008, respectively. Revenues from customers located outside the United States were $79,705 million, $83,038 million and $96,569 million in 2010, 2009 and 2008, respectively.
Property, plant and Assets(a)(b) equipment odditions(cl Depreciation and amortization At December 31 For the years ended December 31 For the years ended December 31 lIn millions) 2010 2009 2008 2010 2009 2008 2010 2009 2008 Energy Infrastructure
$ 38,606
$ 36,663
$ 36,973 954
$1,012
$ 1,382 911 994 973 Technology Infrastructure 51,474 50,245 51,863 789 812 1,247 1,643 1,496 1,343 NBC Universal 33,792 32,282 33,781 286 282 131 345 354 GE Capital 575,908 607,707 627,501 7,674 6,440 15,325 8,375 9,177 10,226 Home & Business Solutions 4,280 4,955 4,908 229 201 195 354 366 342 Corporate items and eliminations 47,156 50,049 42,815 fill)
[79) 349 479 297 299 Total
$751,216
$781,901
$797,841
$9,821
$8,668
$18,629
$11,762
$12,675
$13,537 (a) Assets of discontinued operations are included in Corporate items and eliminations for all periods presented.
(b) Total assets of the Energy Infrastructure, Technology Infrastructure, GE Capital and Home & Business Solutions operating segments at December 31, 2010, include investments in, and advances to, associated companies of $667 million, $856 million, $25,662 million and $430 million, respectively. Investments in. and advances to, associated companies contributed approximately $58 million, $40 million, $284 million, $2,035 million and $30 million to segment pre-tax income of Energy Infrastructure, Technology Infrastructure, NBC Universal, GE Capital and Home & Business Solutions operating segments, respectively, for the year ended December 31, 2010. Aggregate summarized financial information for significant associated companies assuming a 100% ownership interest included: total assets of $198,571 million, primarily financing receivables of
$97,561 million; total liabilities of $152,812 million, primarily bank deposits of $75,661 million; revenues totaling $15,659 million; and net earnings totaling $2,895 million.
(c) Additions to property, plant and equipment include amounts relating to principal businesses purchased.
Property, plant and equipment-net associated with operations based in the United States were $17,596 million, $19,798 million and
$27,667 million at year-end 2010, 2009 and 2008, respectively. Property, plant and equipment-net associated with operations based outside the United States were $48,618 million, $49,172 million and $50,861 million at year-end 2010, 2009 and 2008, respectively.
Interest and other financial charges Provision (benefitl for income taxes (In millions) 2010 2009 2008 2010 2009 2008 GE Capital
$14,924
$17,491
$24,570
$ (932)
$(3,812)
$(2,137)
Corporate items and eliminations(al 1,059 818 1,188 1,982 2,664 3,239 Total
$15,983
$18,309
$25,758
$1,050
$(1,148)
$1,102 (a) Included amounts for Energy Infrastructure, Technology Infrastructure, NBC Universal and Home & Business Solutions for which our measure of segment profit excludes interest and other financial charges and income taxes.
GE 2010 ANNUAL REPORT 129
NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS Note 29.
Quarterly Information (Unaudited)
First quarter Second quarter Third quarter Fourth quarter (In millions; per-share amounts in dollars) 2010 2009 2010 2009 2010 2009 2010 2009 CONSOLIDATED OPERATIONS Earnings from continuing operations
$ 2,370
$ 2,934
$ 3,340
$ 2,673
$ 3,289
$ 2,441
$ 4,159
$ 3,095 Earnings (loss) from discontinued operations (374)
(20)
(133) 29 (1,077) 53 605 20 Net earnings 1,996 2,914 3,207 2,702 2,212 2,494 4,764 3,115 Less net earnings attributable to noncontrolling interests (52)
(85)
(97)
(12)
(157)
(1)
(229)
(102)
Net earnings attributable to the Company 1,944
.2,829 3,110 2,690 2,055 2,493 4,535 3,013 Preferred stock dividends declared (75)
(75)
(75)
(75)
(75)
(75)
(75)
(75)
Net earnings attributable to GE common shareowners
$ 1,869
$ 2,754
$ 3,035
$ 2,615
$ 1,980
$ 2,418
$ 4,460
$ 2,938 Per-share amounts-earnings from continuing operations Diluted earnings per share 0.21 0.26 0.30 0.24 0.29 0.22 0.36 0.27 Basic earnings per share 0.21 0.26 0.30 0.24 0.29 0.22 0.36 0.27 Per-share amounts-earnings (loss) from discontinued operations Diluted earnings per share (0.04)
(0.01)
(0.10) 0.06 Basic earnings per share (0.04)
(0.01)
(0.10) 0.06 Per-share amounts-net earnings Diluted earnings per share 0.17 0.26 0.28 0.25 0.18 0.23 0.42 0.28 Basic earnings per share 0.17 0.26 0.28 0.25 0.18 0.23 0.42 0.28 SELECTED DATA GE Sales of goods and services
$23,509
$24,023
$24,403
$26,013
$23,593
$25,123
$28,715
$28,298 Gross profit from sales 6,146 6,013 7,294 7,234 6,974 6,560 8,278 7,886 GECS Total revenues 12,796 14,278 12,790 12,943 12,099 12,325 12,814 13,112 Earnings from continuing operations attributable to the Company 523 978 767 144 804 120 1,036 73 For GE, gross profit from sales is sales of goods and services less costs of goods and services sold.
Earnings-per-share amounts are computed independently each quarter for earnings from continuing operations, earnings (loss) from discontinued operations and net earnings. As a result, the sum of each quarter's per-share amount may not equal the total per-share amount for the respective year; and the sum of per-share amounts from continuing operations and discontinued operations may not equal the total per-share amounts for net earnings for the respective quarters.
130 GE 2010 ANNUAL REPORT
SUPPLEMENTAL INFORMATION Financial Measures that Supplement Generally Accepted Accounting Principles We sometimes use information derived from consolidated finan-cial information but not presented in our financial statements prepared in accordance with U.S. generally accepted accounting principles (GAAP). Certain of these data are considered "non-GAAP financial measures" under U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission rules. Specifically, we have referred, in various sec-tions of this Annual Report, to:
" Industrial cash flow from operating activities (Industrial CFOA)
" Industrial and Infrastructure revenues
- Industrial and Infrastructure earnings
" Average GE shareowners' equity, excluding effects of discon-tinued operations
" Ratio of debt to equity at GECS, net of cash and equivalents and with classification of hybrid debt as equity
" Ratio of debt to equity at GECC, net of cash and equivalents and with classification of hybrid debt as equity
- GE Capital ending net investment (ENI), excluding cash and equivalents
- GE pre-tax earnings from continuing operations, excluding GECS earnings from continuing operations, the corresponding effective tax rates and the reconciliation of the U.S. federal statutory rate to those effective tax rates The reasons we use these non-GAAP financial measures and the reconciliations to their most directly comparable GAAP financial measures follow.
to others; and various investments, loans and allocations of GE corporate overhead costs. We believe that investors may find it useful to compare GE's operating cash flows without the effect of GECS dividends, since these dividends are not representative of the operating cash flows of our industrial businesses and can vary from period to period based upon the results of the financial services businesses. Management recognizes that this measure may not be comparable to cash flow results of companies which contain both industrial and financial services businesses, but believes that this comparison is aided by the provision of addi-tional information about the amounts of dividends paid by our financial services business and the separate presentation in our financial statements of the Financial Services (GECS) cash flows.
We believe that our measure of Industrial CFOA provides manage-ment and investors with a useful measure to compare the capacity of our industrial operations to generate operating cash flow with the operating cash flow of other non-financial busi-nesses and companies and as such provides a useful measure to supplement the reported GAAP CFOA measure.
Industrial and Infrastructure Revenues (In millions)
Total segment revenues Less GE Capital Segment revenues, excluding GE Capital (Industrial revenues)
Less NBCU Segment revenues, excluding GE Capital and NBCU (Infrastructure revenues) 2010
$147,963 47,040 100,923 16,901
$ 84,022 Industrial and Infrastructure Earnings Industrial Cash Flow from Operating Activities (Industrial CFOA)
(In millions) 2010 2009 2008 2007 2006 Cash from GE's operating activities, as reported
$14,746 $16,405 $19,138 $23,301 $23,772 Less dividends from GECS 2,351 7,291 9,847 Cash from GE's operating activities, excluding dividends from GECS (industrial CFOA)
$14,746 $16,405 $16,787 $16,010 $13,925 We refer to cash generated by our industrial businesses as "Industrial CFOA," which we define as GE's cash from operating activities less the amount of dividends received by GE from GECS.
This includes the effects of intercompany transactions, including GE customer receivables sold to GECS; GECS services for trade receivables management and material procurement; buildings and equipment lincluding automobiles) leased between GE and GECS; information technology (IT) and other services sold to GECS by GE; aircraft engines manufactured by GE that are installed on aircraft purchased by GECS from third-party producers for lease (In millions)
Total segment profit Less GE Capital Segment profit, excluding GE Capital (Industrial earnings)
Less NBCU Segment profit, excluding GE Capital and NBCU (Infrastructure earningsl 2010
$ 19,568 3,265 16,303 2,261
$ 14,042 We have provided segment revenues and profit excluding the revenues and earnings of our financial services segment, GE Capital, which we refer to as "Industrial revenues" and "Industrial earnings," and excluding GE Capital and our media business, NBCU, which we refer to as "Infrastructure revenues" and "Infrastructure earnings." We believe that these are useful comparisons because they provide investors with information on the results of our industrial businesses, with and without the NBCU business, which is classified as a business held for sale at December 31, 2010. We believe that these measures, considered along with the corresponding GAAP measures, provide manage-ment and investors with additional information for comparison to other industrial businesses.
GE 2010 ANNUAL REPORT 131
SUPPLEMENTAL INFORMATION Average GE Shareowners' Equity, Excluding Effects of Discontinued Operations(al December 31 I*n millionsl 2010 2009 2009 2007 2006 Average GE shareowners' equity(b)
$116,179
$110,535
$113,387
$113,809
$109,142 Less the effects of the average net investment in discontinued operations 5,314 6,125 2,287 6,181 8,707 Average GE shareowners' equity, excluding effects of discontinued operations(a)
$110,865
$104,410
$111,100
$107,628
$100,435 (a) Used for computing return on average GE shareowners' equity and return on average total capital invested (ROTC).
VbI On an annual basis, calculated using a five-point average.
Our ROTC calculation excludes earnings (lossesl of discontinued operations from the numerator because U.S. GAAP requires us to display those earnings (losses) in the Statement of Earnings. Our calculation of average GE shareowners' equity may not be directly comparable to similarly titled measures reported by other compa-nies. We believe that it is a clearer way to measure the ongoing trend in return on total capital for the continuing operations of our businesses given the extent that discontinued operations have affected our reported results. We believe that this results in a more relevant measure for management and investors to evalu-ate performance of our continuing operations, on a consistent basis, and to evaluate and compare the performance of our con-tinuing operations With the ongoing operations of other businesses and companies.
Definitions indicating how the above-named ratios are calcu-lated using average GE shareowners' equity, excluding effects of discontinued operations, can be found in the Glossary.
Ratio of Debt to Equity at GECS, Net of Cash and Equivalents and with Classification of Hybrid Debt as Equity Ratio of Debt to Equity at GECC, Net of Cash and Equivalents and with Classification of Hybrid Debt as Equity December 31 (Dollars in millions)
GECC debt Less cash and equivalents Less hybrid debt 2010
$465,350 59,553 7,725
$398,072
$ 72,881 7,725 2009
$490,707 61,923 7,725
$421,059
$ 73,718 7,725 GECC equity Plus hybrid debt
$ 80,606
$ 81,443 Ratio 4.94:1 5.17:1 We have provided the GECS and GECC ratio of debt to equity on a basis that reflects the use of cash and equivalents to reduce debt, and with long-term debt due in 2066 and 2067 classified as equity. We believe that this is a useful comparison to a GAAP-based ratio of debt to equity because cash balances may be used to reduce debt and because this long-term debt has equity-like characteristics. The usefulness of this supplemental measure may be limited, however, as the total amount of cash and equivalents at any point in time may be different than the amount that could practically be applied to reduce outstanding debt, and it may not be advantageous or practical to replace certain long-term debt with equity. In the first quarter of 2009, GE made a $9.5 billion payment to GECS (of which $8.8 billion was further contributed to GECC through capital contribution and share issuance). Despite these potential limitations, we believe that this measure, consid-ered along with the corresponding GAAP measure, provides investors with additional information that may be more compa-rable to other financial institutions and businesses.
December 31 (Dollars in millions)
GECS debt Less cash and equivalents Less hybrid debt 2010
$470,562 60,272 7,725
$402,565
$ 68,984 7,725
$ 76,709 2009
$493,585 62,584 7,725
$423,276
$ 70,833 7,725
$ 78,558 2008
$514,430 37,411 7,725
$469,294
$ 53,279 7,725
$ 61,004 GECS equity Plus hybrid debt Ratio 5.25:1 5.39:1 7.69:1 132 GE 2010 ANNUAL REPORT
SUPPLEMENTAL INFORMATION GE Capital Ending Net Investment (ENI),
Excluding Cash and Equivalents fIn billions)
GECC total assets Less assets of discontinued operations Less non-interest bearing liabilities GE Capital ENI Less cash and equivalents GE Capital ENI, excluding cash and equivalents December 31, 2010
$581.1 5.2 38.9 537.0 59.6
$477.4 January 1 2010
$653.6 15.1 50.3 588.2 61.9
$526.3 We use ENI to measure the size of our GE Capital segment. We believe that this measure is a useful indicator of the capital (debt or equity) required to fund a business as it adjusts for non-inter-est bearing current liabilities generated in the normal course of business that do not require a capital outlay. We also believe that by excluding cash and equivalents, we provide a meaningful measure of assets requiring capital to fund our GE Capital seg-ment, as a substantial amount of this cash and equivalents resulted from debt issuances to pre-fund future debt maturities and will not be used to fund additional assets. Providing this measure will help investors measure how we are performing against our previously communicated goal to reduce the size of our financial services segment.
GE Pre-Tax Earnings from Continuing Operations, Excluding GECS Earnings from Continuing Operations and the Corresponding Effective Tax Rates (Dollars in millions) 2010 2009 2008 GE earnings from continuing operations before income taxes
$15,166
$13,867
$21,864 Less GECS earnings from continuing operations 3,130 1,315 7,712 We believe that the GE effective tax rate is best analyzed in rela-tion to GE earnings before income taxes excluding the GECS net earnings from continuing operations, as GE tax expense does not include taxes on GECS earnings. Management believes that in addition to the Consolidated and GECS tax rates shown in Note 14, this supplemental measure provides investors with useful information as it presents the GE effective tax rate that can be used in comparing the GE results to other non-financial services businesses.
Five-Year Financial Performance Graph: 2006-2010 COMPARISON OF FIVE-YEAR CUMULATIVE RETURN AMONG GE' S&P 500 AND DOW JONES INDUSTRIAL AVERAGE The annual changes for the five-year period shown in the graph on this page are based on the assumption that $100 had been invested in GE stock, the Standard & Poor's 500 Stock Index (S&P 500) and the Dow Jones Industrial Average (DJIA) on December 31, 2005, and that all quarterly dividends were rein-vested. The total cumulative dollar returns shown on the graph represent the value that such investments would have had on December 31, 2010.
FIVE-YEAR FINANCIAL PERFORMANCE 2005 2006 2007 2008 2009 2010 (In dollars) lGE 51 50
--- S&P 500 DJIA 2005 200§ 2007 2008 2009 2010 GE
$100
$109
$112
$51
$ 50
$ 62 S&P 500 100 116 122 77 97 112 DJIA 100 119 130 88 108.
123 Total
$12,036
$12,552
$14,152 GE provision for income taxes
$ 2,024
$ 2,739
$ 3,427 GE effective tax-rate, excluding GECS earnings 16.8%
21.8%
24.2%
Reconciliation of U.S. Federal Statutory Income Tax Rate to GE Effective Tax Rate, Excluding GECS Earnings 2010 U.S. federal statutory income tax rate 35.0%
Reduction in rate resulting from Tax on global activities including exports (13.5)
U.S. business credits (2.8)
All other-net (1.9)
(18.2) 2009 35.0%
(12.0) 11.1)
(0.1)
(13.2) 2008 35.0%
(8.0)
(0.5)
(2.31 110.81 GE effective tax rate, excluding GECS earnings 16.8%
21.8%
24.2%
GE 2010 ANNUAL REPORT 133
GLOSSARY BACKLOG Unfilled customer orders for products and product services (12 months for product services).
BORROWING Financial liability (short or long-term) that obligates us to repay cash or another financial asset to another entity.
BORROWINGS AS A PERCENTAGE OF TOTAL CAPITAL INVESTED For GE, the sum of borrowings and mandatorily redeemable preferred stock, divided by the sum of borrowings, mandatorily redeemable pre-ferred stock, noncontrolling interests and total shareowners' equity.
CASH EQUIVALENTS Highly liquid debt instruments with original maturities of three months or less, such as commercial paper.
Typically included with cash for reporting purposes, unless desig-nated as available-for-sale and included with investment securities.
CASH FLOW HEDGES Qualifying derivative instruments that we use to protect ourselves against exposure to variability in future cash flows. The exposure may be associated with an existing asset or liability, or with a forecasted transaction. See "Hedge."
COMMERCIAL PAPER Unsecured, unregistered promise to repay borrowed funds in a specified period ranging from overnight to 270 days.
DERIVATIVE INSTRUMENT A financial instrument or contract with another party (counterparty) that is designed to meet any of a variety of risk management objectives, including those related to fluctuations in interest rates, currency exchange rates or com-modity prices. Options, forwards and swaps are the most common derivative instruments we employ. See "Hedge."
DISCONTINUED OPERATIONS Certain businesses we have sold or com-mitted to sell within the next year and therefore will no longer be part of our ongoing operations. The net earnings, assets and liabili-ties, and cash flows of such businesses are separately classified on our Statement of Earnings, Statement of Financial Position and Statement of Cash Flows, respectively, for all periods presented.
EFFECTIVE TAX RATE Provision for income taxes asa percentage of earnings from continuing operations before income taxes and accounting changes. Does not represent cash paid for income taxes in the current accounting period. Also referred to as
'actual tax rate" or "tax rate."
ENDING NET INVESTMENT (ENIl The total capital we have invested in the financial services business. It is the sum of short-term borrow-ings, long-term borrowings and equity (excluding noncontrolling interests) adjusted for unrealized gains and losses on investment securities and hedging instruments. Alternatively, it is the amount of assets of continuing operations less the amount of non-interest bearing liabilities.
EQUIPMENT LEASED TO OTHERS Rental equipment we own that is avail-able to rent and is stated at cost less accumulated depreciation.
FAIR VALUE HEDGE Qualifying derivative instruments that we use to reduce the risk of changes in the fair value of assets, liabilities or certain types of firm commitments. Changes in the fair values of derivative instruments that are designated and effective as fair value hedges are recorded in earnings, but are offset by corresponding changes in the fair values of the hedged items. See "Hedge."
FINANCING RECEIVABLES Investment in contractual loans and leases due from customers (not investment securities).
FORWARD CONTRACT Fixed price contract for purchase or sale of a specified quantity of a commodity, security, currency or other financial instrument with delivery and settlement at a specified future date. Commonly used as a hedging tool. See "Hedge."
GOODWILL The premium paid for acquisition of a business. Calcu-lated as the purchase price less the fair value of net assets acquired (net assets are identified tangible and intangible assets, less liabilities assumed).
GUARANTEED INVESTMENT CONTRACT (GIC) Deposit-type product that guarantees a minimum rate of return, which may be fixed or floating.
HEDGE A technique designed to eliminate risk. Often refers to the use of derivative financial instruments to offset changes in inter-est rates, currency exchange rates or commodity prices, although many business positions are "naturally hedged"-for example, funding a U.S. fixed-rate investment with U.S. fixed-rate borrow-ings is a natural interest rate hedge.
INTANGIBLE ASSET A non-financial asset lacking physical sub-stance, such as goodwill, patents, licenses, trademarks and customer relationships.
INTEREST RATE SWAP Agreement under which two counterparties agree to exchange one type of interest rate cash flow for another.
In a typical arrangement, one party periodically will pay a fixed amount of interest, in exchange for which that party will receive variable payments computed using a published index. See "Hedge."
INVESTMENT SECURITIES Generally, an instrument that provides an ownership position in a corporation (a stock), a creditor relation-ship with a corporation or governmental body (a bond), rights to contractual cash flows backed by pools of financial assets or rights to ownership such as those represented by options, sub-scription rights and subscription warrants.
MANAGED RECEIVABLES Total receivable amounts on which we continue to perform billing and collection activities, including receivables that have been sold with and without credit recourse and are no longer reported on our Statement of Financial Position.
MATCH FUNDING A risk control policy that provides funding for a particular financial asset having the same currency, maturity and interest rate characteristics as that asset. Match funding is executed directly, by issuing debt, or synthetically, through a combination of debt and derivative financial instruments. For example, when we lend at a fixed interest rate in the U.S., we can borrow those U.S. dollars either at a fixed rate of interest or at a floating rate executed concurrently with a pay-fixed interest rate swap. See "Hedge."
MONETIZATION Sale of financial assets to a third part y for cash. For example, we sell certain loans, credit card receivables and trade receivables to third-party financial buyers, typically providing at least some credit protection and often agreeing to provide collec-tion and processing services for a fee. Monetization normally results in gains on interest-bearing assets and losses on 134 GE 2010 ANNUAL REPORT
GLOSSARY non-interest bearing assets. See "Securitization" and "Variable Interest Entity."
NONCONTROLLING INTEREST Portion of shareowners' equity in a subsidiary that is not attributable to GE. In financial statements prior to 2009, this was labeled minority interest and was pre-sented outside of shareowners' equity.
OPERATING PROFIT GE earnings from continuing operations before interest and other financial charges, income taxes and effects of accounting changes.
OPTION The right, not the obligation, to execute a transaction at a designated price, generally involving equity interests, interest rates, currencies or commodities. See "Hedge."
PRODUCT SERVICES For purposes of the financial statement display of sales and costs of sales in our Statement of Earnings, "goods" is required by U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission regulations to include all sales of tangible products, and "services" must include all other sales, including broadcasting and other services activities. In our Management's Discussion and Analysis of Operations we refer to sales under product service agreements and sales of both goods (such as spare parts and equipment upgrades) and related services (such as monitoring, maintenance and repairs) as sales of "product services," which is an important part of our operations.
PRODUCT SERVICES AGREEMENTS Contractual commitments, with multiple-year terms, to provide specified services for products in our Energy Infrastructure and Technology Infrastructure installed base-for example, monitoring, maintenance, service and spare parts for a gas turbine/generator set installed in a customer's power plant.
PRODUCTIVITY The rate of increased output for a given level of input, with both output and input measured in constant currency.
PROGRESS COLLECTIONS Payments received from customers as deposits before the associated work is performed or product
.is delivered.
QUALIFIED SPECIAL PURPOSE ENTITIES (QSPEs) These were entities excluded from consolidation until the effective date of ASU 2009-16 and ASU 2009-17. The activities of QSPEs are significantly limited and entirely specified in the legal documents that estab-lished the entity. There also are significant limitations on the types of assets and derivative instruments they may hold and the types and extent of activities and decision-making they may engage in.
RETAINED INTEREST A portion of a transferred financial asset retained by the transferor that provides rights to receive portions of the cash inflows from that asset.
RETURN ON AVERAGE GE SHAREOWNERS' EQUITY Earnings from continu-ing operations before accounting changes divided by average GE shareowners' equity, excluding effects of discontinued opera-tions (on an annual basis, calculated using a five-point average).
Average GE shareowners' equity, excluding effects of discontin-ued operations, as of the end of each of the years in the five-year period ended December 31, 2010, is described in the Supplemental Information section.
RETURN ON AVERAGE TOTAL CAPITAL INVESTED For GE, earnings from continuing operations before accounting changes plus the sum of after-tax interest and other financial charges and noncontrolling interests, divided by the sum of the averages of total shareowners' equity (excluding effects of discontinued operations), borrowings, mandatorily redeemable preferred stock and noncontrolling interests (on an annual basis, calculated using a five-point aver-age). Average total shareowners' equity, excluding effects of discontinued operations as of the end of each of the years in the five-year period ended December 31, 2010, is described in the Supplemental Information section.
SECURITIZATION A process whereby loans or other receivables are packaged, underwritten and sold to investors. In a typical trans-action, assets are sold to a special purpose entity, which purchases the assets with cash raised through issuance of ben-eficial interests (usually debt instruments) to third-party investors.
Whether or not credit risk associated with the securitized assets is retained by the seller depends on the structure of the securiti-zation. See "Monetization" and "Variable interest entity."
SUBPRIME Forpurposes of Consumer related discussion, subprime includes consumer finance products like mortgage, auto, cards, sales finance and personal loans to U.S. and global borrowers whose credit score implies a higher probability of default based upon GECC's proprietary scoring models and definitions, which add various qualitative and quantitative factors to a base credit score such as a FICO score or global bureau score. Although FICO and global bureau credit scores are widely accepted ratings of individual consumer creditworthiness, the internally modeled scores are more reflective of the behavior and default risks in the portfolio compared to stand-alone generic bureau scores.
TURNOVER Broadly based on the number of times that working capital is replaced during a year. Current receivables turnover is total sales divided by the five-point average balance of GE current receivables. Inventory turnover is total sales divided by a five-point average balance of inventories. See "Working capital."
UNPAID CLAIMS AND CLAIMS ADJUSTMENT EXPENSES Claims reserves for events that have occurred, including both reported and incurred-but-not-reported (IBNR) reserves, and the expenses of settling such claims.
VARIABLE INTEREST ENTITY (VIE) An entity defined by ASC 810, Consolidotion, and that must be consolidated by its primary beneficiary, the party that holds a controlling financial interest.
A variable interest entity has one or both of the following charac-teristics: (1) its equity at risk is not sufficient to permit the entity to finance its activities without additional subordinated financial support from other parties, or (2) as a group, the equity investors lack one or more of the following characteristics: (a) the power to direct the activities that most significantly affect the economic performance of the entity, Vb) obligation to absorb expected losses, or (c) right to receive expected residual returns.
WORKING CAPITAL Represents GE current receivables and inven-tories, less GE accounts payable and progress collections.
GE 2010 ANNUAL REPORT 135
CORPORATE IN FORMATION CORPORATE HEADQUARTERS General Electric Company 3135 Easton Turnpike, Fairfield, CT 06828 (203) 373-2211 ANNUAL MEETING GE's 2011 Annual Meeting of Shareowners will be held on Wednesday, April 27, 2011, at the Salt Palace Convention Center in Salt Lake City, Utah.
SHAREOWNER INFORMATION To transfer securities, write to GE Share Owner Services, c/o The Bank of New York Mellon, P.O. Box 358010, Pittsburgh, PA 15252-8010.
For shareowner inquiries, including enrollment information and a prospectus for the Direct Purchase and Reinvestment Plan, "GE Stock Direct," write to GE Share Owner Services, c/o The Bank of New York Mellon, P.O. Box 358016, Pittsburgh, PA 15252-8016; or call (800) 786-2543 (800-STOCK-GE) or (201) 680-6848; or send an e-mail to shrrelations@bnymellon.com.
For Internet access to general shareowner information and certain forms, including transfer instructions or stock power, visit the Web site at www.bnymellon.com/shareowner.
STOCK EXCHANGE INFORMATION In the United States, GE common stock is listed on the New York Stock Exchange (NYSE), its principal market. It also is listed on certain non-U.S.
exchanges, including the London Stock Exchange and Euronext Paris.
TRADING AND DIVIDEND INFORMATION Common Stock Market Price Dividends (in dollars)
High Low Declared 2010 Fourth quarter
$18.49
$15.63
$.14 Third quarter 16.70 13.75
.12 Second quarter 19.70 14.27
.10 First quarter 18.94 15.15
.10 2009 Fourth quarter
$16.87
$14.15
$10 Third quarter 17.52 10.50
.10 Second quarter 14.55 9.80
.10 First quarter 17.24 5.87
.31 As of December 31, 2010, there were about 578,000 shareowner accounts of record.
FORM 10-K AND OTHER REPORTS; CERTIFICATIONS The financial information in this report, in the opinion of management, substantially conforms with information required inthe "Form 10-K Report" filed with the U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC) in February 2011. However, the Form 10-K Report also contains additional information, and it can be viewed at www.ge.com/secreports.
Copies also are available, without charge, from GE Corporate Investor Communications, 3135 Easton Turnpike, Fairfield, CT 06828.
General Electric Capital Services, Inc. and General Electric Capital Corporation file Form 10-K Reports with the SEC, and these can also be viewed at www.ge.com/secreports.
GE has included as exhibits to its Annual Report on Form 10-K for fiscal year 2010 filed with the SEC, certifications of GE's Chief Executive Officer and Chief Financial Officer certifying the quality of the Company's public disclosure. GE's Chief Executive Officer has also submitted to the NYSE a certification certifying that he is not aware of any violations by GE of the NYSE corporate governance listing standards.
Information on the GE Foundation, GE's philanthropic organization, can be viewed at www.gefoundation.com.
INTERNET ADDRESS INFORMATION Visit us online at www.ge.com for more information about GE and its products and services.
The 2010 GE Annual Report is available online at www.ge.com/
annualreport. For detailed news and information regarding our strategy and our businesses, please visit our Press Room online at www.genewscenter.com, our Investor Information site at www.ge.com/investor or our corporate blog at www.gereports.com.
PRODUCT INFORMATION For information about GE's consumer products and services, visit us at www.geconsumerandindustrial.com.
CORPORATE OMBUDSPERSON To report concerns related to compliance with the law, GE policies or government contracting requirements, write to GE Corporate Ombudsperson, P.O. Box 911, Fairfield, CT 06825; Or call (800) 227-5003 or (203) 373-2603; or send an e-mail to ombudsperson@corporate.
,ge~com.
CONTACT THE GE BOARD OF DIRECTORS For reporting complaints about GE's financial reporting, internal controls and procedures, auditing matters or other concerns to the Board of Directors or the Audit Committee, write to GE Board of Directors, General Electric Company IW2E), 3135 Easton.Turnpike, Fairfield, CT 06828; or call (800) 417-0575 or (203) 373-2652; or send an e-mail to directors@corporate.ge.com.
©2011 General Electric Company Printed in U.S.A.
Note: Unless otherwise indicated by the context, the terms "GE," "General Electric" and "Company" are used on the basis of consolidation described on page 72.
GE, 0, ecomagination, healthymagination and Imagination at Work are trademarks and service marks of the General Electric Company. Other marks used throughout are trademarks and service marks of their respective owners.
Patent applications filed in 2010 by GE include U.S. original and other applications.
Caution Concerning Forward-Looking Statements: This document contains "forward-looking statements"-that is, statements related to future, not past, events. In this context, forward-looking statements often address our expected future business and financial performance and financial condition, and often contain such words as "expect," "anticipate," "intend," "plan," "believe," "seek,"
"see," or "will." Forward-looking statements by their nature address matters that are, to different degrees, uncertain. For us, particular uncertainties that could cause our actual results to be materially different than those expressed in our forward-looking statements include: current economic and financial conditions, including volatility in interest and exchange rates, commodity and equity prices and the value of financial assets; the impact of conditions in the financial and credit markets on the availability and cost of General Electric Capital Corporation's (GECC) funding and on our ability to reduce GECC's asset levels as planned; the impact of conditions in the housing market and unem-ployment rates on the level of commercial and consumer credit defaults; changes in Japanese consumer behavior that may affect our estimates of liability for excess interest refund claims (Grey Zone); our ability to maintain our current credit rating and the impact on our funding costs and competitive position if we do not do so; the adequacy of our cash flow and earnings and other conditions which may affect our ability to pay our quarterly dividend at the planned level; the level of demand and financial performance of the major industries we serve, including, without limitation, air and rail transportation, energy generation, network television, real estate and healthcare; the impact of regulation and regulatory, investigative and legal proceedings and legal compli-ance risks, including the impact of financial services regulation; strategic actions, including acquisitions and dispositions and our success in integrating acquired businesses; and numerous other matters of national, regional and global scale, including those of a political, economic, business and competitive nature. These uncertainties may cause our actual future results to be materially different than those expressed in our forward-looking statements. We do not undertake to update our forward-looking statements.
136 GE 2010 ANNUAL REPORT
GE'S INCREASED INVESTMENT IN R&D 2001-2011 10% average annual growth of investment in R&D (2-3 times the rate of inflation).
GE's commitment to innovation and investing for future growth is evident in this snapshot of company-and customer-funded R&D spending over the past decade.
E o
Visit our interactive online annual report at www.ge.com/annualreport For daily news updates on GE and a closer look at our technologies and innovations, please check www.gereports.com.
Thanks to the customers, partners and GE employees who appear in this annual report for contributing their time and support.
The paper used in this report was supplied by participants of the Sustainable Initiative Programs.
The majority of the power utilized to manufacture this paper was renewable energy, produced with GE's wind and biogas technologies, and powered by GE steam engines and turbine engines.
FSC 100%
FSC' C102835 Pages 12 and 13, iPhone and iPad courtesy of Apple.
Page 12, BlackBerry,' RIM, Research In Motion' and related trademarks, names and logos are the property of Research In Motion Limited and are registered and/or used in the U.S.
and countries around the world. Used under license from Research In Motion Limited.
Page 20, Volt image. General Motors Corp. Used with permission. GM Media Archives.
General Electric Company Fairfield, Connecticut 06828 www.ge.com imagination at work