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UNITED STATES SECURITIES AND EXCHANGE COMMISSION
Washington, DC 20549-1004
FORM 10-K
X ANNUAL REPORT PURSUANT TO SECTION 13 OF THE SECURITIES EXCHANGE ACT OF
1934
For the fiscal year ended December 31, 1998
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OR
TRANSITION REPORT PURSUANT TO SECTION 13 OF THE SECURITIES EXCHANGE ACT OF
1934
For the transition period from to
Commission file number 1-143
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GENERAL MOTORS CORPORATION
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(Exact Name of Registrant as Specified in its Charter)
STATE OF DELAWARE 38-0572515
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(State or other jurisdiction of (I.R.S. Employer
Incorporation or Organization) Identification No.)
100 Renaissance Center, Detroit, Michigan 48265-1000
3044 West Grand Boulevard, Detroit, Michigan 48202-3091
- -------------------------------------------- ----------
(Address of Principal Executive Offices) (Zip Code)
Registrant's telephone number, including area code (313) 556-5000
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Securities registered pursuant to Section 12(b) of the Act:
Name of Each Exchange on
Title of Each Class Which Registered
- -------------------------------------------- -----------------------------
Common, $1-2/3 par value (653,567,016 shares
outstanding as of February 28, 1999) New York Stock Exchange, Inc.
Class H Common, $0.10 par value (106,299,971
shares outstanding as of February 28, 1999) New York Stock Exchange, Inc.
Preference, $0.10 par value, Series B
9-1/8% Depositary Shares, stated value
$25 per share, dividends cumulative
(20,020,586 depositary shares outstanding
as of February 28, 1999) New York Stock Exchange, Inc.
Preference, $0.10 par value, Series D
7.92% Depositary Shares, stated value
$25 per share, dividends cumulative
(3,014,654 depositary shares outstanding
as of February 28, 1999) New York Stock Exchange, Inc.
Preference, $0.10 par value, Series G
9.12% Depositary Shares, stated value
$25 per share, dividends cumulative
(5,015,410 depositary shares outstanding
as of February 28, 1999) New York Stock Exchange, Inc.
General Motors Capital Trust D 8.67% Trust
Originated Preferred Securitiessm (TOPrSsm),
Series D (3,149,748 shares outstanding as of
February 28, 1999) New York Stock Exchange, Inc.
General Motors Capital Trust G 9.87% Trust
Originated Preferred Securitiessm (TOPrSsm),
Series G (5,221,123 shares outstanding as of
February 28, 1999) New York Stock Exchange, Inc.
Note: The $1-2/3 par value common stock of the Registrant is also listed for
trading on:
Chicago Stock Exchange, Inc. Chicago, Illinois
Pacific Exchange, Inc. San Francisco, California
Philadelphia Stock Exchange, Inc. Philadelphia, Pennsylvania
Montreal Stock Exchange Montreal, Quebec, Canada
Toronto Stock Exchange Toronto, Ontario, Canada
Borse Frankfurt am Main Frankfort on the Main, Germany
Borse Dusseldorf Dusseldorf, Germany
Bourse de Bruxelles Brussels, Belgium
Courtiers en Valeurs Mobilieres Paris, France
The London Stock Exchange London, England
Indicate by check mark whether the registrant (1) has filed all reports required
to be filed by Section 13 of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934 during the
preceding 12 months, and (2) has been subject to such filing requirements for
the past 90 days. Yes X . No .
Indicate by check mark if disclosure of delinquent filers pursuant to Item 405
of Regulation S-K is not contained herein, and will not be contained, to the
best of registrant's knowledge, in definitive proxy or information statements
incorporated by reference in Part III of this Form 10-K or any amendment to this
Form 10-K. ( )
The aggregate market value (based upon the average of the highest and lowest
sales prices on the Composite Tape on February 26, 1999) of General Motors
Corporation $1-2/3 par value and Class H common stocks held by nonaffiliates on
February 26, 1999 was approximately $54.7 billion and $5.0 billion,
respectively.
Documents incorporated by reference are as follows:
Part and Item Number of Form
Document 10-K into Which Incorporated
- -------- ----------------------------
General Motors Notice of Annual Meeting of Stockholders and Proxy Statement for
the Annual Meeting of Stockholders to be held June 7, 1999 Part III, Items 10
through 13
- ----------------------
sm "Trust Originated Preferred Securities" and "TOPrS" are service trademarks of
Merrill Lynch & Co.
COVER PAGE
PART I
GENERAL MOTORS CORPORATION AND SUBSIDIARIES
THE CORPORATION
General Motors Corporation, incorporated in 1916 under the laws of the State
of Delaware, is hereinafter sometimes referred to as the "Registrant" or the
"Corporation" and, together with its subsidiaries, is hereinafter sometimes
referred to as "General Motors" or "GM."
ITEM 1. Business
General
The following information is incorporated herein by reference to the
indicated pages in Part II:
Item Page(s)
Wholesale Sales II- 6
Employment and Payrolls II-21
Note 22 of Notes to Consolidated Financial
Statements (Segment Reporting) II-63 through II-66
GM presents separate consolidating financial information for the following
businesses: Automotive, Electronics and Other Operations and Financing and
Insurance Operations. While the major portion of GM's operations is derived from
the automotive and electronics industries, GM also has financing and insurance
operations and produces products and provides services in other industries. GM
participates in the automotive industry through the activities of its automotive
business operating segments: General Motors Automotive (GMA) and Delphi
Automotive Systems (Delphi). GMA is comprised of four regions: GM North America
(GMNA), GM Europe (GME), GM Asia/Pacific (GMAP), and GM Latin
America/Africa/Mid-East (GMLAAM). GMNA designs, manufactures, and markets
vehicles primarily in North America under the following nameplates: Chevrolet,
Pontiac, GMC, Oldsmobile, Buick, Cadillac, and Saturn. GME, GMAP and GMLAAM meet
the demands of customers outside North America with vehicles designed,
manufactured and marketed under the following nameplates: Opel, Vauxhall,
Holden, Isuzu, Saab, Chevrolet, GMC, and Cadillac. Delphi is a diverse supplier
of automotive systems and components. Delphi offers products and services in the
areas of electronics and mobile communication; safety, thermal and electrical
architecture; and dynamics and propulsion. GM's electronics operations relate to
its Hughes Electronics Corporation subsidiary (Hughes) which includes activities
relating to designing, manufacturing, and marketing advanced technology
electronic systems, products, and services for the telecommunications and space
industries. GM's other operations includes the design, manufacturing and
marketing of locomotives and heavy-duty transmissions. GM's financing and
insurance operations primarily relate to General Motors Acceptance Corporation
(GMAC). GMAC provides a broad range of financial services, including consumer
vehicle financing, full-service leasing and fleet leasing, dealer financing, car
and truck extended service contracts, residential and commercial mortgage
services, and vehicle and homeowners insurance.
Substantially all automotive-related products are marketed through retail
dealers and through distributors and jobbers in the United States, Canada, and
Mexico, and through distributors and dealers overseas. At December 31, 1998,
there were approximately 8,300 GM vehicle dealers in the United States, 900 in
Canada and Mexico, and 5,500 outlets overseas.
Raw Materials and Services
GM purchases materials, parts, supplies, freight transportation, energy, and
other services from numerous unaffiliated firms. Interruptions in production or
delivery of these goods or services could adversely affect GM.
Backlog of Orders
Shipments of GM automotive products are made as promptly as possible after
receipt of firm sales orders; therefore, no significant backlog of unfilled
orders accumulates. Hughes had a $10.1 billion and $10.3 billion backlog of
commercial contracts relating to its telecommunications and space businesses at
the end of 1998 and 1997, respectively.
I-1
GENERAL MOTORS CORPORATION AND SUBSIDIARIES
Competitive Position
GM's principal competitors in passenger cars and trucks in the United States
and Canada include Ford Motor Company, Daimler-Chrysler Corporation, Toyota
Corporation, Nissan Motor Corporation, Ltd., Honda Motor Company, Ltd., Mazda
Motor Corporation, Mitsubishi Motors Corporation, Fuji Heavy Industries, Ltd.
(Subaru), Volkswagen A.G., Hyundai Motor Company, Ltd., Bayerische Motoren Werke
AG (BMW), and Volvo AB. All but Volkswagen and Hyundai currently operate vehicle
manufacturing facilities in the United States or Canada. Toyota and GM operate
the New United Motor Manufacturing, Inc. facility in Fremont, California as a
joint venture which currently builds passenger cars and light-duty trucks.
Wholesale unit sales of GM passenger cars and trucks during the three years
ended December 31, 1998 are summarized in Management's Discussion and Analysis
in Part II.
Total industry new motor vehicle (passenger cars, trucks, and buses)
registrations of domestic and foreign makes and GM's competitive position during
the years ended December 31, 1998, 1997, and 1996, respectively, were as
follows:
1998(1) 1997 1996
------- ---- ----
(Units in Thousands)
Total industry registrations
In the United States 15,971 15,501 15,459
In Canada and Mexico 2,091 1,919 1,535
In other countries 33,955 35,757 34,789
------ ------ ------
Total industry registrations - all countries 52,017 53,177 51,783
====== ====== ======
1998(1) 1997 1996
------- ---- ----
(Percent of Total Industry)
GM's registrations
In the United States 29% 31% 31%
In Canada and Mexico 29 31 31
In other countries 9 9 9
Total GM's registrations - all countries 16 16 16
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(1) Preliminary
The above information on registrations of new cars, trucks, and buses was
obtained from outside sources and that pertaining to GM's registrations includes
units which are manufactured overseas by other companies and which are imported
and sold by GM and affiliates.
Research and Development
In 1998, GM spent $7.9 billion for research, manufacturing engineering,
product engineering, and development activities related primarily to the
development of new products or services or the improvement of existing products
or services, including activities related to vehicle emissions control, improved
fuel economy, and the safety of persons using GM products. In addition, $719
million was spent for customer-sponsored activities, the majority of which were
government related. Comparable data for 1997 were $8.2 billion for
company-sponsored activities and $1.5 billion for customer-sponsored activities
and for 1996 were $8.9 billion for company-sponsored activities and $1.6 billion
for customer-sponsored activities, respectively.
Environmental Matters
Automotive Emissions Control
Both the Federal and California governments currently impose stringent
emission control requirements on motor vehicles sold in their respective
jurisdictions. These requirements include pre-production testing of vehicles,
testing of vehicles after assembly, the imposition of emission defect and
performance warranties, and the obligation to recall and repair customer-owned
vehicles determined to be non-compliant with emissions requirements.
Both the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) and the California Air
Resources Board (CARB) continue to place great emphasis on compliance testing of
customer-owned vehicles. Failure to comply with the emission standards or
defective emission control hardware discovered during such testing can lead to
substantial cost for General Motors related to emissions recalls. New CARB and
Federal requirements will increase the time and mileage periods over which
manufacturers are responsible for a vehicle's emission performance.
I-2
GENERAL MOTORS CORPORATION AND SUBSIDIARIES
Automotive Emissions Control (concluded)
Both the EPA and the CARB emission requirements will become even more
stringent in the future. A new tier of exhaust emission standards for cars and
light-duty trucks, the "LEV II" standards will begin phasing in for California
vehicles in the 2004 model year. Similar Federal standards and timing are under
consideration by EPA.
The requirement that, for model years 2003 and later, 10% of cars and small
light-duty trucks (up to 3,750 lb Loaded Vehicle Weight) sold in California must
be zero emission vehicles (ZEVs), was modified by the LEV II rules to allow up
to 6% of the 10% to be met using a new category of emission standards - the
super low emission vehicle. Also, GM and six other major vehicle manufacturers
signed Memorandum of Agreements (MOAs) with CARB to provide for a more market
driven-introduction of ZEVs. The MOAs include provisions for an advanced battery
ZEV demonstration program of 3,750 vehicles in the 1998-2000 time frame, a
National LEV program or an alternative that provides equivalent emission
benefits in California, the capability to produce specified numbers of ZEVs as
warranted by demand, and continued research and development of advanced
batteries. General Motors has fulfilled its MOA commitment for the 1998 model
year.
The Clean Air Act permits states that have areas with air quality problems to
adopt the California car and truck emission standards in lieu of the Federal
requirements and four states have done so. Under the voluntary National LEV
(NLEV) program, the auto industry began the phase in of California vehicles in
the northeast in 1999, and vehicles in all states outside California standard
states meeting LEV standards on average starting in 2001. The EPA issued a final
rule which would implement the NLEV program as a voluntary alternative available
to automakers, and on March 2, 1998, the EPA declared that the NLEV program was
"in effect" for 1999 and later model years after all manufacturers and all the
Northeast states except New York, Massachusetts, Maine, and Vermont opted to
participate in the program.
In addition to the above-mentioned exhaust emission programs, onboard
diagnostic (OBD) devices, used to diagnose problems with emission control
systems, were required both federally and in California effective with the 1996
model year. This system has the potential of increasing warranty costs and the
chance for recall.
New evaporative emission control requirements for cars and trucks began
phasing in with the 1995 model year in California and the 1996 model year
federally. Systems will need to be further modified to accommodate Federal
onboard refueling vapor recovery (ORVR) control standards. ORVR phases in on
passenger cars in the 1998 through 2000 model years and on light-duty trucks in
the 2001 through 2006 model years. Beginning with the 2004 model year, even more
stringent evaporative emission standards will be required in California.
Starting in the 2000 model year, today's test procedure for exhaust emissions
will become more complex with vehicles required to meet two additional test
requirements: 1) measuring exhaust emissions over a new test cycle with the air
conditioner operating; and 2) measuring exhaust emissions over a new high speed
(80 mph) and high load cycle. Both of these requirements have the potential of
adding hardware (and thus costs) to many vehicles.
Industrial Environmental Control
GM is subject to various laws relating to the protection of the environment
including laws regulating air emissions, water discharges, waste management, and
environmental cleanup.
GM is in various stages of investigation or remediation for sites where
contamination has been alleged and has recorded a liability of $519 million at
December 31, 1998 and $610 million at December 31, 1997 for worldwide
environmental investigation and remediation as summarized below:
. GM has been identified as a potentially responsible party at sites
identified by the EPA and state regulatory agencies for investigation and
remediation under the Comprehensive Environmental Response, Compensation,
and Liability Act (CERCLA) and similar state statutes. GM voluntarily and
actively participates in cleanup activity where such involvement is
verified. The foreseeable total liability for sites involving GM is
estimated to be $147 million, which was recorded at December 31, 1998.
This compares to $186 million at December 31, 1997.
. For closed or closing plants owned by the Corporation, an estimated
liability for environmental investigation and remediation is typically
recognized at the time of the closure decision. Such liability, which is
based on an environmental assessment of the plant property, is estimated
at $102 million at December 31, 1998. This compares to $122 million at
December 31, 1997.
. GM is involved in investigations and remediation activities at additional
locations worldwide with a foreseeable liability of approximately $270
million, which was recorded at December 31, 1998. This compares to $302
million at December 31, 1997.
I-3
GENERAL MOTORS CORPORATION AND SUBSIDIARIES
Industrial Environmental Control (concluded)
The cost impact of the Clean Air Act Amendments under Title V are the annual
emission fees of approximately $9 million per year. Additional programs under
the Clean Air Act, including Hazardous Air Pollutant standards, and Compliance
Assurance Monitoring and periodic monitoring requirements are estimated to cost
$500 million to $700 million through the year 2003.
Expenditures by General Motors in the United States for industrial
environmental control facilities during the years ended December 31, 1998, 1997,
and 1996, respectively, were as follows (in millions): 1998-$92; 1997-$108; and
1996-$117. The Corporation currently estimates that future expenditures for
industrial environmental control facilities through 2002 will be (in millions):
1999-$115; 2000-$71; 2001 and 2002-$123. Specific environmental expenses are
difficult to isolate since expenditures may be made for more than one purpose,
making precise classification difficult.
Vehicular Noise Control
Federal Truck Regulations preempt all state/local noise regulations for
trucks over 10,000 lb Gross Vehicle Weight Rating (GVWR). All jurisdictions
regulating noise levels of school buses which are built on medium-duty truck
chassis have adopted standards compatible with Federal regulations for
medium-duty trucks. Federal Truck Regulations contain label and owner's manual
requirements.
Passenger cars and light-duty trucks are subject to state and local motor
vehicle noise regulations. The current standard for vehicles in these classes is
80 dB as measured at 50 feet. Future implementation of more stringent exhaust
emission regulations and more stringent fuel economy regulations will require an
assessment of increased costs of noise control.
Safety Affairs and Regulations
Expenditures to maintain the operational safety, occupant protection, and
vehicle theft deterrence capability of new GM models continue. These
expenditures include amounts for the study of alternative approaches for meeting
the needs of all three areas.
GM continues to meet the government requirement for passive restraints by
installing driver and passenger supplemental inflatable restraints (air bags) on
all passenger cars and selected light trucks and vans.
GM introduced in 1998 and later models less aggressive air bags in order to
address concerns about inflation injuries, particularly to children and smaller
adult passengers who are not properly positioned. GM continues to make available
air bag on-off switches for those customers who request them and also are
eligible under the requirements of the National Highway Traffic Safety
Administration (NHTSA) regulation allowing these devices.
Dynamic side impact protection requirements similar to those for cars will
apply to certain light trucks and vans beginning September 1, 1998. Side
structure and interior trim designs of future models will continue to be
affected. Additional market pressure and future model design effects are likely
regarding side impact performance at higher crash speeds. This will result as
the federal government continues its consumer information side impact crash test
program at an elevated impact speed.
A new government requirement for vehicle interior impact protection continues
to significantly affect upper body structure and interior trim designs of future
model passenger cars and light trucks and vans. The phase-in for this rulemaking
began on September 1, 1998, and will apply to all these vehicles in the 2003
model year.
The NHTSA currently is considering the effects of fuel system crash integrity
requirements of the Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standard 301. If any of the
considerations ultimately are adopted as final rules, some undetermined
redesign, cost, and weight increase could be expected for most of GM's vehicles.
See Item 3, Legal Proceedings, Other Matters.
With the passage of the Anti-Car Theft Act of 1992, implementation costs
affect approximately 22 passenger car assembly plants and 4 light-duty truck
plants. For the affected truck plants, the major expenditures were for new label
printer installations and additional stamping equipment.
Automotive Fuel Economy
The Energy Policy and Conservation Act passed in 1975 provided for
production-weighted average fuel economy standards for passenger cars for 1978
and thereafter. Based on EPA combined city-highway test data, the GM 1998 model
year domestic passenger car fleet is projected to attain a Corporate Average
Fuel Economy (CAFE) of 27.8. miles per gallon (mpg) versus the standard of 27.5
mpg. The CAFE estimate for 1999 model year passenger cars is projected at 27.6
mpg versus the standard of 27.5 mpg.
Fuel economy standards for light-duty trucks became effective in 1979.
General Motors' light truck CAFE fleet average for the 1998 model year is
projected to be 21.1 mpg versus a standard of 20.7 mpg. GM's 1999 model year
truck CAFE is projected at 20.1mpg versus a standard of 20.7 mpg. Projected
shortfalls to the standard are expected to be offset by credits from future
model years.
I-4
GENERAL MOTORS CORPORATION AND SUBSIDIARIES
Automotive Fuel Economy (concluded)
GM's ability to meet increased CAFE standards is contingent on various future
economic, consumer, legislative, and regulatory factors that GM cannot control
and cannot predict with certainty. If GM could not comply with any new CAFE
standards, GM could be subject to sizeable civil penalties and could have to
close plants or severely restrict product offerings to remain in compliance. It
is expected that the Kyoto Protocol on climate change will lead to continued
pressure to increase fuel economy levels.
Seasonal Nature of Business
In the automotive business, there are retail sales fluctuations of a seasonal
nature, so that production varies from month to month. In addition, the
changeover period related to the annual new model introduction has traditionally
occurred in the third quarter of each year. For this reason, third quarter
operating results are, in general, less favorable than those in the other three
quarters of the year, depending on the magnitude of the changeover needed to
commence production of new models incorporating, for example, design
modifications related to more fuel-efficient vehicle packaging, stricter
government standards for safety and emission controls, and consumer-oriented
improvements in performance, comfort, convenience, and style.
Segment Reporting Data
Operating segment and principal geographic area data for 1998, 1997, and 1996
are summarized in Note 22 of Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements in Part
II.
* * * * * *
The Registrant makes no attempt herein to predict the future trend of its
business and earnings or the effect thereon of the results of changes in general
economic, industrial, regulatory, and international conditions.
ITEM 2. Properties
The Corporation, excluding its Financing and Insurance Operations, has 291
locations operating in 33 states and 144 cities in the United States. Of these,
24 are engaged in the final assembly of GM cars and trucks; 39 are service parts
operations responsible for distribution or warehousing; 9 major plants, offices,
and research facilities relate to the operations of Hughes Electronics
Corporation; and the remainder are offices or involved primarily in the testing
of vehicles or the manufacture of automotive components and power products. In
addition, the Corporation has 21 locations in Canada and assembly,
manufacturing, distribution, or warehousing operations in 54 other countries,
including equity interests in associated companies which conduct assembly,
manufacturing, or distribution operations. The major facilities outside the
United States and Canada, which are principally vehicle manufacturing and
assembly operations, are located in Germany, the United Kingdom, Brazil, Mexico,
Australia, Belgium, Spain, China, and Poland.
Most facilities are owned by the Corporation or its subsidiaries. Leased
properties consist primarily of warehouses and administration, engineering, and
sales offices. The leases for warehouses generally provide for an initial period
of five years and contain renewal options. Leases for sales offices are
generally for shorter periods.
Properties of the Registrant and its subsidiaries include facilities which,
in the opinion of management, are suitable and adequate for the manufacture,
assembly, and distribution of their products.
Additional information regarding worldwide expenditures for plants and
equipment is presented under Management's Discussion and Analysis in Part II.
ITEM 3. Legal Proceedings
(a) Material pending legal proceedings, other than ordinary routine
litigation incidental to the business, to which the Corporation became, or was,
a party during the year ended December 31, 1998, or subsequent thereto, but
before the filing of this report are summarized below.
I-5
GENERAL MOTORS CORPORATION AND SUBSIDIARIES
Environmental Matters
In August, 1996, the California Air Resources Board (CARB) ordered General
Motors to recall about 11,500 1992 MY "S" Trucks. The CARB claims that the
engines in these trucks, known by their emissions engine family designator as
N3G4.3TBXEB2, exceeded the applicable new motor vehicle emissions standard for
oxides of nitrogen (Nox). In addition to the ordered recall, the CARB threatened
civil penalties of up to $57 million. General Motors believes that it has valid
defenses to all CARB's claims and has requested an administrative review of the
penalties and ordered recall. General Motors' defenses include the failure of
CARB's outside contractor test laboratory to comply with the Federal Test
Procedure used to identify non-compliant engine families. The administrative
case is in the discovery stage, and a hearing is not likely until sometime in
1999.
* * *
On November 24, 1998, the New York Department of Environmental Conservation
(NYDEC) issued a Notice of Violation to the Corporation's Delphi Automotive
Systems (specifically, its Delphi Harrison Thermal Systems Division) for the
unauthorized installation and operation of four thermal degreaser machines at
its facility in Lockport, New York. On December 17, 1998, the matter was
terminated by a settlement under a Consent Order pursuant to which Delphi agreed
to pay a penalty of $110,000. The violations, which consisted of failure to have
a proper permit, had been inadvertent and when discovered by Delphi were
self-reported leading to the settlement. This matter will no longer be reported
as part of the Corporation's Legal Proceedings.
* * *
In December 1998, the Louisiana Department of Environmental Quality (LDEQ)
issued a Penalty Assessment in the amount of $100,000 involving the plant in
Monroe, Louisiana operated by Delphi Automotive Systems. Although Delphi sold
the plant to a third party in October, 1998, GM retains responsibility for
certain pre-sale environmental issues, including the alleged permit violations
covered by the Penalty Assessment. GM filed a request for hearing, and is
pursuing settlement discussions with LDEQ.
* * *
Other Matters
U.S. Government contracts held by the Corporation and its subsidiaries are
subject to termination by the U.S. Government either for its convenience or for
default by the contractor. The costs recovered for terminations for convenience
do not always fully reimburse the contractor, and the profit or fee received by
the contractor may be lower than that which it had expected for the portion of
the contract performed. In cases of termination for default, normal contract
remedies generally apply. In addition, the U.S. Government has broad discretion
to suspend or debar a contractor from engaging in new government business,
including discretion as to the period of suspension and activities affected. A
contractor may be debarred based on a conviction or civil judgment involving
certain offenses, including fraud in connection with obtaining or performing a
public contract, or subcontract thereunder, and may be suspended if indicted for
such an offense or if there is other adequate evidence that such an offense has
been committed. Like other government contractors, GM and its subsidiaries are
subject to civil audits and criminal investigations relating to their
contracting activity.
* * *
Hughes has maintained a suit against the U.S. Government since September
1973 regarding the Government's infringement and use of a Hughes patent (the
"Williams Patent") covering "Velocity Control and Orientation of a Spin
Stabilized Body," principally satellites. On April 7, 1998, the U.S. Court of
Appeals for the Federal Circuit (CAFC) reaffirmed earlier decisions in the
Williams case including the award of $114 million in damages. The CAFC ruled
that the conclusions previously reached in the Williams case were consistent
with the U.S. Supreme Court's findings in the Warner-Jenkinson case. The U.S.
Government petitioned the CAFC for a rehearing, was denied the request, and
thereafter applied for certiorari to the U.S. Supreme Court.
On March 1, 1999, the U.S. Surpreme Court denied the U.S. Government's
petition for certiorari. The case will be remanded back to the trial court
(Court of Claims) for entry of the final judgement. While no amount has been
recorded in the financial statements of Hughes to reflect the $114 million award
or the interest accumulating thereon as of December 31, 1998, it is expected
that resolution of this matter will result in the recognition of a pre-tax gain
of approximately $150 million during 1999.
* * *
I-6
GENERAL MOTORS CORPORATION AND SUBSIDIARIES
Other Matters (Continued)
In October, 1994, as previously reported, a California jury awarded a total
of $89.5 million in damages against Hughes, which include $9.5 million of actual
damages and punitive damages of $40 million to each of two former Hughes
employees, Lane (race discrimination/retaliation) and Villalpando (retaliation),
based on claims of mistreatment and denials of promotions. The trial court
granted Hughes' motion to set aside the verdicts because of insufficient
evidence. On January 6, 1997, the Court of Appeal reversed the trial court's
decision to set aside the verdicts and reinstated the jury verdicts, but reduced
the two $40 million punitive damage awards to $5 million and $2.83 million,
resulting in an aggregate judgment of $17.33 million. Hughes' petition for
review by the California Supreme Court was granted in November, 1997. Hughes
filed its opening brief in January, 1998. This matter is now fully briefed,
including amicus briefs on behalf of Hughes. The Supreme Court has not yet
established a date for oral argument.
* * *
On or about October 25, 1996, an action was commenced by Comsat Corporation
against PanAmSat, News Corporation Limited (News Corp.) and Grupo Television,
S.A., in the United States District Court for the Central District of
California. The Complaint alleges that News Corp. wrongfully terminated an
agreement with Comsat for the lease of transponders on an Intelsat satellite
over the term of a five-year lease, breached certain alleged promises related to
such agreement, and breached its alleged obligations under a tariff filed by
Comsat with the Federal Communications Commission (FCC). As to PanAmSat, the
complaint alleges that PanAmSat, alone and in conspiracy with Televisa,
intentionally interfered with the alleged agreement and with Comsat's economic
relationship with News Corp. Comsat had previously filed a similar action in the
United States District Court for the District of Maryland. By order dated
October 10, 1996, the Maryland District Court dismissed without prejudice the
complaint in that action on the ground that the court lacked personal
jurisdiction over all of the defendants. The complaint in the present action
seeks actual and consequential damages, and punitive or exemplary damages in an
amount to be determined at trial. PanAmSat believes this action is without
merit. It intends to vigorously contest this matter although there can be no
assurance that PanAmSat will prevail. Following the completion of pretrial
discovery, all defendants moved for summary judgment dismissing the case. These
motions are awaiting action in the Court. If PanAmSat were not to prevail, the
amounts involved could be material to PanAmSat.
* * *
General Electric Capital Corporation (GECC) and DIRECTV, Inc. (DIRECTV), a
wholly-owned subsidiary of Hughes Electronics Corporation ("Hughes"), entered
into a contract on July 31, 1995, in which GECC agreed to provide financing for
consumers purchases of DIRECTV programming and related hardware. Under the
contract, GECC also agreed to provide certain related services to DIRECTV,
including credit risk scoring, billing and collections services. DIRECTV agreed
to act as a surety for loans complying with the terms of the contract. Hughes
guaranteed DIRECTV's performance under the contract. A complaint and
counterclaim have been filed by the parties in the U.S. District Court for the
District of Connecticut concerning GECC's performance and DIRECTV's obligation
to act as a surety. GECC claims damages from DIRECTV in excess of $140 million.
DIRECTV seeks damages from GECC in excess of $70 million. Management of Hughes
intends to vigorously contest GECC's allegations and pursue its own contractual
rights and remedies. The management of Hughes does not believe that the
litigation will have a material adverse impact on the Corporation. Discovery is
not yet completed in the case no trial date has been set.
* * *
In connection with the 1997 spin-off of Hughes Defense and its subsequent
merger with Raytheon, a process was agreed to among GM, Hughes and Raytheon for
resolving disputes that might arise in connection with post-closing adjustments
called for by the terms of the merger agreement. Such adjustments might call for
a cash payment between Hughes and Raytheon. A dispute currently exists regarding
the post-closing adjustments which Hughes and Raytheon have proposed to one
another. In an attempt to resolve the dispute, Hughes gave notice to Raytheon to
commence the arbitration process. Raytheon responded by filing an action in
Delaware Chancery Court which seeks to enjoin the arbitration as premature. It
is possible that the ultimate resolution of the post-closing financial
adjustment provision of the merger agreement may result in Hughes making a
payment to Raytheon that could be material to Hughes. However, the amount of any
I-7
GENERAL MOTORS CORPORATION AND SUBSIDIARIES
Other Matters (Continued)
payment that either party might be required to make to the other is not
determinable at this time. Hughes intends to vigorously pursue resolution of the
dispute through the arbitration process, opposing the adjustments Raytheon seeks
and seeking the payment from Raytheon that it has proposed.
* * *
Two suits, Stephen A. Solomon v. General Motors Corporation, et al. and TRV
Holding Company v. General Motors Corporation, et al., (collectively
"Solomon/TRV"), were filed in Delaware Chancery Court on May 13 and 18, 1994,
respectively, challenging GM's split-off of Electronic Data Systems Corporation
(EDS). Such actions have been consolidated and a consolidated amended complaint
was filed on April 2, 1996. In addition, on May 10, 1996, a second amended and
supplemental consolidated complaint (the "Second Amended Complaint") was filed
by plaintiffs in this action. Another lawsuit, Ward et al., as Trustees for the
Eisenberg Children's Irrevocable Trust II v. General Motors Corporation, et al.
(Ward), was filed in Delaware Chancery Court on November 15, 1995. On May 17,
1996, Solomon/TRV and Ward (collectively, "Solomon/TRV/Ward") were consolidated
and the Second Amended Complaint was adopted as the complaint for the
consolidated action.
Solomon/TRV/Ward purports to be a class action brought on behalf of former
holders of Class E common stock, $0.10 par value per share (the "Class E Common
Stock"), of General Motors against certain present and former directors of
General Motors, as well as a double derivative action brought on behalf of EDS
against certain present and former directors of General Motors and certain
former directors of EDS (all of whom are also directors or officers of General
Motors). EDS is named in the complaint only as a nominal defendant with respect
to the double derivative action. The Second Amended Complaint alleges that
defendants have breached and are continuing to breach their fiduciary duties in
connection with their conduct with respect to EDS and the proposed split-off of
EDS from General Motors (the "Split-Off"). In particular, the complaint alleges
that the process of establishing terms for the Split-Off, including the
consideration of alternatives to such transaction and the negotiating process in
connection therewith, was unfairly dominated and controlled by General Motors
and that the resulting terms unfairly benefit General Motors and its continuing
shareholders, including the holders of common stock, $1-2/3 par value per share
(the "$1-2/3 Common Stock"), and the Class H common stock, $0.10 par value per
share (the "Class H Common Stock"), of General Motors, to the detriment of EDS
and the former holders of Class E Common Stock. The complaint also alleges that
the split-off would unfairly effect a disposition of EDS because it would not
provide for a recapitalization of the Class E Common Stock into $1-2/3 Common
Stock at a 120% exchange ratio, as had been provided in the General Motors
Certificate of Incorporation upon a disposition by General Motors of
substantially all of the business of EDS. Furthermore, the complaint alleges
that the solicitation of consents by General Motors with respect to the proposed
split-off is wrongfully coercive and the solicitation statement being used in
connection therewith is materially deficient. The Second Amended Complaint seeks
monetary damages from the defendants, as well as an injunction against further
action in connection with the split-off. In addition, the complaint seeks an
order appointing independent representatives to act on behalf of and protect the
interests of EDS and the former holders of Class E Common Stock. The complaint
also seeks an order requiring the defendants to disseminate completely all
material information to the former holders of Class E Common Stock in connection
with the split-off.
On May 10, 1996, the plaintiffs in the consolidated action filed a motion for
expedited proceedings, including a request for a hearing on their application
for a preliminary injunction against further action in connection with the
split-off. As a result of such application, a hearing on the plaintiffs'
application for a preliminary injunction had been scheduled for May 30, 1996. On
May 23, 1996, after limited discovery, the plaintiffs' counsel informed the
court that plaintiffs had concluded that adequate relief could be afforded to
the plaintiff class members after the split-off was consummated and were
withdrawing their application for expedited proceedings including a preliminary
injunction hearing. Thus, plaintiffs abandoned their pursuit of an injunction to
prevent consummation of the split-off. On June 7, 1996, having received consent
of a majority of the holders of each class of its common stock, General Motors
split-off EDS to former General Motors Class E stockholders. (See Tabulation of
consents at Item 4, page 36 of the Form 10-Q filed by General Motors for the
Quarter Ended June 30, 1996).
On December 1, 1997, plaintiffs served a Third Amended and Supplemental
Consolidated Complaint which makes essentially the same allegations as the
Second Amended Complaint. The complaint seeks monetary damages, including
recissory damages, and an accounting for any special benefits obtained by
defendants. On December 11, 1997, defendants filed a motion to dismiss the
complaint. The parties continue to await a decision by the Court.
* * *
I-8
GENERAL MOTORS CORPORATION AND SUBSIDIARIES
Other Matters (Continued)
On April 26 and 27, 1996, two purported class actions, Keith McGill v.
General Motors Corporation and Richard Dolowich v. General Motors Corporation,
were filed against General Motors in the Supreme Court of the State of New York,
Counties of Bronx and Suffolk, alleging defective rear disc brake caliper pins
in the "GM W-Body car". These actions have been consolidated in the Supreme
Court of the State of New York, County of Bronx. The Dolowich suit is brought on
behalf of all persons and entities in the United States who currently own or
lease or previously owned or leased a 1988-1993 Buick Regal, Oldsmobile Cutlass
Supreme, Pontiac Grand Prix or Chevrolet Lumina. The McGill suit includes the
same model year vehicles, but is brought on behalf of persons and entities
residing in the State of New York who purchased or leased such vehicles and
still own them. Three additional purported nationwide class actions, brought on
behalf of current and previous owners of the same vehicles, have been filed in
federal courts in New Jersey, Garcia v. General Motors, and Pennsylvania, Neff
v. General Motors and Marcel v. General Motors. Two additional purported class
actions involving the same vehicles were filed, one in the Superior Court of New
Jersey for Burlington County, Bishop v. General Motors Corporation and another
in the United States District Court for the Eastern District of Pennsylvania,
Cohen v. General Motors Corporation. Together, the complaints allege violation
of state consumer protection laws, fraud, negligent misrepresentation, and
breach of express and implied warranty, and seek unspecified amounts of economic
damages, punitive damages not less than $20 million, attorneys' fees and costs,
and injunctive relief. The Neff, Marcel and Cohen actions have been consolidated
in Pennsylvania State Court. The Garcia and Bishop actions have been
consolidated in New Jersey State Court. On November 11, 1996, the New Jersey
state court rendered a decision certifying a class of all past and present
owners of 1988 through 1993 model year Buick Regals, Chevrolet Luminas,
Oldsmobile Cutlass Supremes and Pontiac Grand Prix. The New Jersey Appellate
Division denied GM's motion for leave to appeal, but noted that the trial court
is required to monitor compliance with the requirements to maintain a class. GM
intends to vigorously defend this matter.
* * *
The following nine lawsuits were filed in the Delaware Court of Chancery
during the first quarter of 1997: Jules Levine v. General Motors Corporation, et
al., on February 6, 1997; Steven Verkouteren v. General Motors Corporation, et
al., on February 6, 1997; Malcolm Rosenwald v. General Motors Corporation, et
al., on February 7, 1997; Richard Strauss v. General Motors Corporation, et al.,
on February 7, 1997; Jeanette Whited, et al. v. General Motors Corporation, et
al., on February 26, 1997; Andrew Carlucci, I.R.A. v. General Motors
Corporation, et al., on March 3, 1997; Dr. Joseph Mantel v. General Motors
Corporation, et al., on March 5, 1997; John P.McCarthy Profit Sharing Plan v.
General Motors Corporation, et al., on March 6, 1997; and Patinkin v. General
Motors Corporation, et al., on March 31, 1997. Each suit was denominated as a
class action and was purportedly brought on behalf of specified holders of GM
Class H common stock against the defendants, General Motors and its directors.
The complaints made essentially the same allegations, namely, that the
defendants have breached and are continuing to breach their fiduciary and
alleged contractual duties to specified holders of GM Class H common stock in
connection with the Hughes transactions. All of these lawsuits have been
consolidated under the caption, In Re General Motors Class H Shareholders
Litigation. Following a hearing on November 24, 1997, the Delaware Court of
Chancery denied plaintiffs' request for expedited discovery and for the
scheduling of a hearing on a motion for a preliminary injunction.
On December 1, 1997, plaintiffs filed a Second Consolidated Amended Complaint
which asserts three claims against General Motors and its directors. The first
claim alleges that General Motors is breaching contractual obligations to GM
Class H common stockholders by effecting a disposition of the defense
electronics business of Hughes Electronics without providing for a
recapitalization of the GM Class H common stock into $1-2/3 common stock at a
120% exchange ratio, as currently provided for under certain circumstances in
the GM Certificate of Incorporation. Plaintiffs contend that any amendment of
the GM Certificate of Incorporation as part of the Hughes transactions would be
invalid because stockholders are being coerced into approving such a change.
Plaintiffs' second claim alleges that GM's directors have breached their
fiduciary duties (1) by failing to act in an informed manner and (2) by failing
to act independently to protect the interests of both classes of GM common
stockholders. In particular, this claim alleges that no processes were employed
to ensure that the interests of GM Class H common stockholders were adequately
represented in connection with the various aspects of the Hughes transactions.
Plaintiffs' third claim is that GM's directors have breached their duty of
candor by using false and misleading solicitation materials to obtain approval
of the Hughes transactions. This claim alleges, among other things, that the
Solicitation Statement fails to disclose the consideration that GM Class H
common stockholders would have received in the event the Hughes transactions
triggered the provision in the GM Certificate of Incorporation for
nondiscretionary recapitalization of GM Class H common stock into GM $1-2/3
common stock at a 120% exchange ratio; misstates that there is substantial
uncertainty
I-9
GENERAL MOTORS CORPORATION AND SUBSIDIARIES
Other Matters (Continued)
regarding application of this provision to the Hughes transactions; and
misleadingly portrays the Hughes transactions as being fair to GM Class H common
stockholders. The complaint alleges that GM Class H common stockholders would be
irreparably damaged if the Hughes transactions were to be consummated as
structured because they would lose their alleged right to receive a 20% premium
in the event of a disposition of Hughes Aircraft. Plaintiffs sought, among other
things, an injunction against the consummation of the Hughes transactions, an
order requiring defendants to implement certain procedures designed to protect
the interests of GM Class H common stockholders, or, in the event the
transaction closes (it has now closed), rescission and/or compensatory damages
against the defendants.
On December 17, 1997, having received consent of a majority of the holders of
each class of its common stock, the Hughes transactions were consummated. (See
Tabulation of consents at Item 4, page I-13 of the Form 10-K filed by General
Motors for the Year Ended December 31, 1997). Also, on December 17, 1997,
defendants filed a motion to dismiss the complaint. The parties continue to
await a decision by the Court.
* * *
Thirty-nine class actions have been filed in state, federal, and Canadian
courts against the Corporation, claiming that 1973-1987 model Chevrolet and GMC
full-size pickup trucks are defective because their fuel tanks are mounted below
the cab and outside the frame rails. Twenty-four federal court class actions
were transferred to the federal court in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania by the
Judicial Panel on Multidistrict Litigation. In these actions, plaintiffs claimed
that the fuel tank locations make the vehicles unreasonably susceptible to
fuel-fed fires following side-impact collisions. Plaintiffs alleged breach of
contract and warranty, negligence, fraud and negligent misrepresentation, as
well as violation of various state consumer protection laws. The lawsuits seek
compensatory and punitive damages and injunctions requiring notice to owners,
repairs, retrofitting and "disgorgement" of revenues.
An agreement for a nationwide settlement of the class actions pending in
federal and state courts received final court approval on December 19, 1996, by
a state court in Louisiana. The settlement, which is not expected to have a
material effect on the consolidated financial statements of General Motors,
provides for owners of 1973 to 1991 full-size pickup trucks and cab chassis with
outside-the-frame fuel tanks, as of July 3, 1996, to receive certificates for
$1,000 toward the purchase of any new General Motors passenger car or light
truck, except Saturns. The certificates can be used for the first 15 months at
$1,000 or transferred one time, whereupon the transferee would be able to use
the certificate for $500 ($250 if used with a General Motors rebate) toward the
purchase of an eligible vehicle until expiration of the 15-month period. After
the first 15 months, original recipients of the certificates may use them for an
additional 18 months at $500 or transfer them, whereupon the transferee would be
able to use the certificates for $250 towards the purchase of an eligible
vehicle. For fleets and governmental entities, after the first 15 months, the
certificates are reduced to $250 for an additional 35 months, but are not
transferable, except to other departments or agencies of the same governmental
entity.
The settlement also provides for $4.1 million to fund motor vehicle fire
safety research. Research funds will be used to benefit motor vehicle safety
generally, and research will not be done on the pickup trucks. The court ordered
General Motors to pay plaintiffs' attorneys' fees and costs totaling $27.875
million.
The Louisiana Court of Appeals reversed on the ground that the findings
required to certify a class had not been made and remanded the case to the trial
court for the required findings. The Louisiana Supreme Court denied review. On
January 20, 1999, the trial court made supplemental findings, recertified the
settlement class, and reaffirmed its approval of the settlement. Certificates
will not be issued until any appeals are concluded and the approval of the
settlement is final.
There are also pending individual product liability claims and lawsuits
involving allegations of defects in the design of such vehicles resulting in
fuel-fed fires following side-impact collisions. GM intends to defend these
cases vigorously.
* * *
On December 2, 1996, a purported class action, Alma Rosa Rangel, et al. v.
General Motors Corporation, was filed in District Court, Webb County, Texas,
claiming that the Type III door latches used in approximately 40 million 1978 to
1986 model GM passenger cars and light trucks are defective. Plaintiffs allege
breaches of express and implied warranties, negligence and gross negligence, and
seek compensatory and punitive damages and attorneys' fees. No determination has
been made that the case can proceed as a class action. GM has removed the case
to the United States District Court, Southern District of Texas, Laredo
Division, and intends to oppose certification of a class. On February 27, 1998,
Johnny McLain v. General Motors Corporation was filed in Circuit Court, Walker
County, Alabama alleging that Type III door latches used in 1979 to 1986 model
GM vehicles are defective. GM removed the case to the United States District
Court, Northern District of Alabama, and moved to dismiss that case. GM intends
to vigorously defend these cases.
* * *
I-10
GENERAL MOTORS CORPORATION AND SUBSIDIARIES
Other Matters (Concluded)
Eleven purported class actions alleging that certain antilock braking systems
on 1989 to 1996 light-duty GM trucks are defective were consolidated by the
Judicial Panel on Multidistrict Litigation for coordinated pretrial proceedings
as In Re General Motors Anti-Lock Brake Products Liability Litigation, USDC,
Eastern District of Missouri, Eastern Division. On June 11, 1997, GM's motion to
dismiss the consolidated complaint was granted. Plaintiffs have appealed to the
federal court of appeals for the Eighth Circuit.
* * *
On April 25, 1997, a purported nationwide class action was filed against the
Corporation and certain other vehicle manufacturers in the Circuit Court of
Coosa County, Alabama, Ellen Smith, et al v. General Motors Corporation, Ford
Motor Company, Chrysler Motors Corporation, Sylacauga Auto Plex, et al, claiming
that the front seat air bags installed in 1993 to 1997 model vehicles are
defective because, when deployed, they are likely to injure small-statured
adults and children. The complaint seeks compensatory damages, the cost of
repair or replacement of the allegedly defective air bags, plus attorneys' fees.
No determination has been made that the matter may proceed as a class action.
The defendants have filed a motion to dismiss the complaint which is under
consideration by the Court. GM intends to vigorously defend this matter.
Two previously reported matters which purported to be class actions
asserting claims similar to those in Ellen Smith v. General Motors, et al,
have been dismissed with prejudice. Those terminated cases, Eloisa
Rodriguez, et al v. General Motors Corporation, Ford Motor Company, Chrysler
Corporation, Volvo of North America, Inc., Armadillo Motor Company, Inc. and
Wickstrom Chevrolet Co., Inc. and Frederick Lewis, et al v. Volvo of North
America, Inc., General Motors Corporation, Ford Motor Corporation, Chrysler
Motors Corporation and Spinato Chrysler Plymouth, Inc. d/b/a Bergeron Volvo,
will no longer be reported as part of the Corporation's Legal Proceedings.
* * *
Seven separate putative class actions have been filed alleging defects in
vehicle paint. Three of those cases have been dismissed. No determination has
been made as to whether any of the four pending cases may proceed as a class
action.
The four pending cases, each of which GM intends to vigorously defend, are
discussed below. The three cases which have been dismissed are discussed in Part
(b) of these Legal Proceedings.
On March 24, 1995, a purported nationwide class action (Christian Amedee and
Louis Fuxan v. General Motors Corporation, et al), was filed in the Civil
District Court for the Parish of New Orleans, State of Louisiana, alleging the
paint or paint application process used by GM at several unspecified North
American assembly plants was defective due to the omission of a surface layer
primer, allegedly causing the paint to prematurely delaminate, deteriorate, and
peel. Plaintiffs seek unspecified compensatory damages, equitable relief,
interest, costs, and attorneys' fees.
On April 8, 1998, the Corporation was served with a putative nationwide class
action filed in the Circuit Court of Cook County, Illinois, Chancery Division
(Craig Friedman, Robert Bengston and Debra Bengston v. General Motors
Corporation). The named plaintiffs purport to represent a class of all persons
who now or formerly owned or leased a 1986 through 1997 model year GM vehicle
which was painted without a primer surfacer layer and which subsequently
experienced paint delamination, and asserts claims for breach of contract,
breach of warranty and violation of the Michigan Consumer Protection Act on
behalf of that class. The Complaint also identifies a similar putative class
limited to Illinois residents for the purpose of asserting a claim under the
Illinois Deceptive Trade Practices Act. Plaintiffs allege that vehicles painted
using a "high build electrocoat" instead of both a "bottom layer electrocoat
applied directly to the sheet metal" and "a spray primer" are subject to paint
delamination (peeling) and well as "softening, chipping, and other damage."
Plaintiffs seek unquantified compensatory damages, punitive damages,
pre-judgment interest, costs and attorneys' fees. The case has been removed to
the Federal District Court for the Northern District of Illinois.
On or about July 6, 1998, the Corporation was served with a putative class
action complaint filed in the Superior Court for the City and County of San
Francisco, California (Eddie Glorioso v. General Motors Corporation). On or
about July 23, 1998, the Corporation was served with another putative class
action complaint filed in the Superior Court for the County of Almeida,
California (Scott Arnold v. General Motors Corporation). The two Complaints are
virtually identical. In each, the named plaintiff purports to represent a class
of all persons or entities resident in California which then or formerly owned
or leased a 1985 through 1997 model year GM vehicle which was painted without a
primer surfacer layer and which subsequently exhibited pealing or chipping of
the paint. Each complaint asserts claims for breach of express warranty,
violation of California's Song Beverly Consumer Warranty Act, and unfair
competition and/or fraudulent business practices. Each Complaint requests
restitution of all amounts paid by class members for GM vehicles and/or
disgorgement of related profits or revenues, equitable relief, actual damages,
prejudgment interest, costs and attorneys' fees.
* * *
I-11
GENERAL MOTORS CORPORATION AND SUBSIDIARIES
(b) Previously reported legal proceedings which have been terminated, either
during the year ended December 31, 1998, or subsequent thereto, but before the
filing of this report are summarized below:
Environmental Matters Which Have Been Terminated
With regard to the previously reported suit filed by the Attorney General for
the State of Michigan, on behalf of the Michigan Department of Natural Resources
(MDNR) alleging that several of GM's plants released polychlorinated biphyls
(commonly referred to as "PCB's") into the Saginaw River, a multi-party
settlement has been reached. The settlement among GM, the City of Bay City, the
City of Saginaw, federal and Michigan State government agencies and the Saginaw
Chippewa Indian Tribe, is designed to restore, enhance and preserve the ecology
of the Saginaw River and Bay area in a cost-effective manner. It will also
provide substantial benefits to the community, including government ownership of
ecologically significant lands, increased fishing opportunities, additional
boating and recreational activities, and operation of a nature learning center.
GM's payment under the settlement is approximately $27 million; a consent
judgment was filed in federal court in Bay City on November 24, 1998.
* * *
Other Terminated Matters
In connection with the previously reported matter, Jacobson, et al v. Hughes
Aircraft Co., et al, in the U.S. District in Arizona, subsequently transferred
to Los Angeles, which was a putative class action seeking to obtain increased
retirement benefits for certain Hughes retirees, the U.S. Supreme Court, On
January 25, 1999, unanimously overturned a decision by the Ninth Circuit Court
of Appeals, which had reversed a decision by the U.S. District Court in Los
Angeles dismissing the plaintiff's complaint without leave to amend, for failure
to state a claim. Accordingly, plaintiff's claims will be dismissed with no
further right of appeal.
* * *
On May 3, 1995, purported class action (Barney Kizzire v. General Motors
Corporation and Bynum Oldsmobile-Pontiac-Cadillac-GMC, Inc.) was filed in the
Circuit Court for Fayette County, Alabama, on behalf of a proposed class of
Alabama residents who purchased 1989 GMC pickup trucks alleging that the paint
was defective. That case was subsequently removed to federal court and the named
plaintiff's claims were all dismissed with prejudice on November 27, 1996.
* * *
On July 12, 1996, the Corporation was served with a putative class action
filed in the Circuit Court of Greene County, Alabama (Robert J. Reining, et al.
v. General Motors Corporation). The complaint alleged that the paint systems
used in the 1985 through 1995 model years are defective or potentially defective
because GM switched to "water-based primers" which could result in various
problems with vehicle finish. On September 11, 1997, the Court dismissed the
case without prejudice at the request of the plaintiffs.
* * *
On January 29, 1997, the Corporation was served with a putative class action
(Karpowicz v. General Motors Corporation), filed in the Circuit Court of the
Sixteenth Judicial Circuit in Kane County, Illinois. This case, purportedly
brought on behalf of Illinois purchasers of new vehicles which experienced
peeling paint, alleges that GM broke a promise to repair paint conditions for
six years from the date of purchase and failed to implement fair and uniform
corrective measures. The case was subsequently removed to Federal Court. On
March 25, 1998, the Court granted GM's motion for summary judgment dismissing
all remaining claims asserted by the named plaintiffs in the Karpowicz matter.
* * *
On August 19, 1998, Thomas Haenish v. General Motors Corporation was filed in
state court, Cook County, Illinois alleging that Type III door latches used in
1979 to 1986 model GM vehicles are defective. GM removed the case to the United
States District Court, Northern District of Illinois, and moved to dismiss the
complaint. GM's motion was granted. Separately, a petition to open a defect
investigation of the Type III door latches was denied by the National Highway
Safety Traffic Administration.
* * * * * *
ITEM 4. Submission of Matters to a Vote of Security Holders
NONE
I-12
GENERAL MOTORS CORPORATION AND SUBSIDIARIES
ITEM 4A. Executive Officers of the Registrant
The names and ages of all executive officers of the Registrant at February
28, 1999 and their positions and offices with the Registrant on that date are as
follows:
Name and (Age) Positions and
Offices
John F. Smith, Jr. (60) Chairman of the Board; Chief Executive
Officer; Member, Investment Funds Committee
Harry J. Pearce (56) Vice Chairman of the Board
G. Richard Wagoner, Jr. (46) President and Chief Operating Officer
J. Michael Losh (52) Executive Vice President; Chief Financial
Officer
Louis R. Hughes (50) Executive Vice President; New Business
Strategies
Ronald L. Zarrella (49) Executive Vice President; President, GM
North America
There are no family relationships, as defined, between any of the above
executive officers, and there is no arrangement or understanding between any of
the above executive officers and any other person pursuant to which he was
selected as an officer. Each of the above executive officers was elected by the
Board of Directors to hold office until the next annual election of officers and
until his successor is elected and qualified or until his earlier resignation or
removal. The Board of Directors elects the officers in conjunction with each
annual meeting of the stockholders.
I-13
GENERAL MOTORS CORPORATION AND SUBSIDIARIES
ITEM 4A. Executive Officers of the Registrant - Concluded
Mr. John F. Smith, Jr. has been associated with General Motors since
1961. He was elected Executive Vice President in charge of International
Operations in 1988. Effective August 1990, he was elected Vice Chairman of
the Board of Directors. On April 6, 1992, Mr. Smith was elected President
and Chief Operating Officer. Effective November 1992, he was elected Chief
Executive Officer and President. He served as President until October 1998.
On January 1, 1996, Mr. Smith became Chairman of the Board of Directors.
Mr. Pearce has been associated with General Motors since 1985. In May 1987,
he was elected Vice President and General Counsel of General Motors. Effective
November 1992, he was elected Executive Vice President of General Motors with
responsibility for the Legal Staff, Industry-Government Relations, Environmental
and Energy, Worldwide Economics, Electronic Data Systems Corporation and GM
Hughes Electronics Corporation (now Hughes Electronics Corporation). In July
1994, he assumed responsibility for GM's Strategic Decision Center, Corporate
Communications, Allison Transmission Division, Electro-Motive Division (now GM
Locomotive Group), Corporate Relations, Worldwide Executive Compensation and
Corporate Governance, and the Business Support Group. He remained General
Counsel through August 1, 1994. Effective January 1996, Mr. Pearce was elected a
director and became Vice Chairman of the Board of Directors and assumed
responsibility for Information System Services. In 1997 he assumed
responsibility for the Enterprise Activities Group and Global Human Resources
and GM University.
Mr. Wagoner has been associated with General Motors since 1977. He was
elected Vice President in charge of finance for General Motors Europe in June
1989. In July 1991, he was elected President and Managing Director of General
Motors do Brasil. Effective November 1992, he was elected Executive Vice
President and Chief Financial Officer of General Motors. In July 1994, he was
named President of North American Operations. In October 1998, he was elected a
director, President and Chief Operating Officer of General Motors.
Mr. Losh has been associated with General Motors since 1964. In July
1984, he was elected Vice President of General Motors and General Manager of
Pontiac Division. He was named General Manager of Oldsmobile Division in
June 1989. Effective May 1992, he was elected Group Executive in charge of
North American Vehicle Sales, Service, and Marketing. In July 1994, he was
elected Executive Vice President and Chief Financial Officer of General
Motors.
Mr. Hughes has been associated with General Motors since 1966. In April 1989,
he was elected Chairman and Managing Director of Adam Opel AG. He was elected
President of General Motors Europe and Vice President and Group Executive of
General Motors in April 1992. Effective November 1992, he was elected Executive
Vice President, in charge of International Operations of General Motors. In
September 1994, he was named Executive Vice President and President of
International Operations. In October, 1998 he was elected Executive Vice
President, New Business Strategies.
Mr. Zarrella has been associated with General Motors since 1994. In December
1994, he was elected Vice President of General Motors and Group Executive in
charge of GM's North American Vehicle Sales, Service and Marketing Group. In
October 1998, he was elected Executive Vice President of General Motors and
President of General Motors North America.
I-14
PART II
GENERAL MOTORS CORPORATION AND SUBSIDIARIES
ITEM 5. Market for the Registrant's Common Equity and Related Stockholder
Matters
General Motor's (GM's) common stocks are listed on the stock exchanges
specified on the cover page of this Form 10-K under the trading symbols (GM) and
(GMH). GM's Dividend Policy is described in Note 19 of Notes to Consolidated
Financial Statements in Part II. As of December 31, 1998, there were 525,583
holders of record of $1-2/3 par value common stock and 205,904 holders of record
of Class H common stock. As of December 31, 1997, there were 563,553 holders of
record of $1-2/3 par value common stock and 231,627 holders of record of Class H
common stock. The following table sets forth the high and low sale prices of
GM's common stock as reported on the composite tape and the quarterly dividends
declared for the last two years.
1998 Quarters
--------------
1st 2nd 3rd 4th
--- --- --- ---
Cash dividends per share of common stocks
$1-2/3 par value $0.50 $0.50 $0.50 $0.50
Class H (2) $- $- $- $-
Price range of common stocks
$1-2/3 par value (3): High $74.25 $76.69 $74.75 $74.94
Low $55.06 $66.13 $54.44 $47.06
Class H (2)(3): High $48.00 $57.88 $50.81 $42.38
Low $31.50 $42.75 $35.00 $30.38
1997 Quarters
--------------
1st 2nd 3rd 4th
--- --- --- ---
Cash dividends per share of common stocks
$1-2/3 par value $0.50 $0.50 $0.50 $0.50
Class H (1) $0.25 $0.25 $0.25 $0.25
Class H (2) $ - $ - $ - $ -
Price range of common stocks
$1-2/3 par value (3): High $63.75 $59.88 $69.75 $72.44
Low $55.00 $55.00 $53.88 $58.31
Class H (1)(3): High $64.88 $60.25 $67.88 $68.94
Low $54.25 $49.00 $55.88 $61.00
Class H (2)(3): High $ - $ - $ - $40.00
Low $ - $ - $ - $35.75
(1)Represents information through December 17, 1997, the date on which GM
recapitalized the Class H common stock ("GM's Recapitalization Date").
(2)Represents information for the period subsequent to GM's Recapitalization
Date.
(3)The principal market is the New York Stock Exchange and prices are based on
the Composite Tape. $1-2/3 par value common stock is also listed on the
Chicago and Philadelphia stock exchanges and on the Pacific Exchange.
II-1
GENERAL MOTORS CORPORATION AND SUBSIDIARIES
ITEM 6. Selected Financial Data (Unaudited)
Years Ended December 31
--------------------------------------------
1998(1) 1997(2) 1996 1995 1994
------- ------- ---- ---- ----
(Dollars in Millions Except Per Share Amounts)
Total net sales and revenue $161,315 $178,252 $163,885 $160,001 $148,261
Income from continuing
operations before
cumulative effect of
accounting changes $2,956 $6,698 $4,953 $6,033 $4,866
Income from discontinued
operations - - 10 900 793
Cumulative effect of
accounting changes - - - (52)(3) (758)(4)
Net income $2,956 $6,698 $4,963 $6,881 $4,901
$1-2/3 par value common stock
Basic earnings per share
(EPS) from
continuing operations $4.26 $8.70 $6.07 $7.14(3) $4.76(4)
Basic earnings (loss) per
share from discontinued
operations $ - $ - $(0.01) $0.14 $0.46
Diluted EPS from continuing
operations $4.18 $8.62 $6.03 $7.07 $4.69
Diluted earnings (loss) per
share from discontinued
operations $ - $ - $(0.01) $0.14 $0.46
Cash dividends declared
per share $2.00 $2.00 $1.60 $1.10 $0.80
Class H common stock
(prior to its
recapitalization on
December 17, 1997)
Basic EPS from continuing
operations $ - $3.17 $2.88 $2.77 $2.62(4)
Diluted EPS from continuing
operations $ - $3.17 $2.88 $2.77 $2.62
Cash dividends declared
per share $ - $1.00 $0.96 $0.92 $0.80
Class H common stock
(subsequent to its
recapitalization on
December 17, 1997)
Basic EPS from continuing
operations $0.68 $0.02 $ - $ - $ -
Diluted EPS from continuing
operations $0.68 $0.02 $ - $ - $ -
Cash dividends declared
per share $ - $ - $ - $ - $ -
Class E common stock
Basic EPS from discontinued
operations $ - $ - $0.04 $1.96 $1.71
Diluted EPS from
discontinued operations $ - $ - $0.04 $1.96 $1.71
Cash dividends declared
per share $ - $ - $0.30 $0.52 $0.48
Total assets $257,389 $231,752 $224,866 $217,485 $194,791
Long-term debt (5) $7,217 $5,695 $5,397 $4,114 $5,062
GM-obligated mandatorily
redeemable preferred
securities of subsidiary
trusts $220 $222 $ - $ - $ -
(1)The 1998 results were affected by certain items which are described on pages
II-68 and II-69.
(2)The 1997 results were affected by certain items which are
described on pages II-70 and II-71.
(3)GM adopted the provisions of the EITF consensus on Issue No. 95-1,
effective January 1, 1995, which resulted in an unfavorable cumulative effect
of $52 million after-tax or $0.07 basic loss per share of $1-2/3 par value
common stock.
(4)GM adopted SFAS No. 112, Employers' Accounting for Postemployment Benefits,
effective January 1, 1994. The unfavorable cumulative effect of adopting SFAS
No. 112 was $751 million after-tax or $1.05 basic loss per share of $1-2/3
par value common stock and $7 million after-tax or $0.08 basic loss per share
of Class H common stock.
(5)Calculated from Automotive, Electronics and Other Operations only.
* * * * * *
II-2
GENERAL MOTORS CORPORATION AND SUBSIDIARIES
ITEM 7. Management's Discussion and Analysis of Financial Condition and Results
of Operations
The following management's discussion and analysis of financial condition
and results of operations (MD&A) should be read in conjunction with the Hughes
Electronics Corporation consolidated financial statements and MD&A for the
period ended December 31, 1998, included as Exhibit 99 to this Annual Report on
Form 10-K, and the Delphi Automotive Systems Corporation (Delphi) and the
General Motors Acceptance Corporation (GMAC) Annual Reports on Form 10-K for the
period ended December 31, 1998, both to be filed separately with the Securities
and Exchange Commission. Hughes Electronics Corporation, prior to the December
17, 1997 restructuring of the company, is hereinafter referred to as "former
Hughes," and Hughes Electronics Corporation, subsequent to the December 17, 1997
restructuring of the company, is hereinafter referred to as "Hughes." All
earnings per share amounts included in the MD&A are reported as basic.
GM presents separate supplemental consolidating financial information for
the following businesses: Automotive, Electronics and Other Operations and
Financing and Insurance Operations.
GM's reportable operating segments within its Automotive, Electronics and
Other Operations business consist of:
. General Motors Automotive (GMA), which is comprised of four regions: GM
North America (GMNA), GM Europe (GME), GM Asia/Pacific (GMAP), and GM
Latin America/Africa/Mid-East (GMLAAM), Delphi, Hughes, and Other.
GMNA designs, manufactures, and markets vehicles primarily in North
America under the following nameplates: Chevrolet, Pontiac, GMC,
Oldsmobile, Buick, Cadillac, and Saturn. GME, GMAP and GMLAAM meet the
demands of customers outside North America with vehicles designed,
manufactured and marketed under the following nameplates: Opel,
Vauxhall, Holden, Isuzu, Saab, Chevrolet, GMC, and Cadillac.
. Delphi is a diverse supplier of automotive systems and components.
Delphi offers products and services in the areas of electronics and
mobile communication; safety, thermal and electrical architecture; and
dynamics and propulsion.
On February 5, 1999, Delphi completed an initial public offering of 100
million shares of its common stock, which represented 17.7% of its
outstanding common shares. Such shares are currently traded on the New
York Stock Exchange (symbol DPH). GM currently owns the remaining
82.3% of Delphi's common stock. GM has announced its intention to
distribute to holders of its $1-2/3 par value common stock in 1999, all
of its interest in Delphi's common stock. See Note 23 to the GM
consolidated financial statements for further information. GM has
received a ruling from the U.S. Internal Revenue Service confirming
that GM's plan to effect a distribution of the shares it holds of
Delphi would be tax-free to GM and its stockholders for U.S. federal
income tax purposes. Although GM is fully committed to completing the
full separation of Delphi from GM through such a distribution, any such
distribution would be subject to a number of conditions and there can
be no assurance as to whether or when it will occur.
. Hughes includes activities relating to designing, manufacturing, and
marketing advanced technology electronic systems, products, and services
for the telecommunications and space industries.
. The Other segment includes the design, manufacturing and marketing of
locomotives and heavy-duty transmissions and the elimination of
intersegment transactions.
GM's reportable operating segments within its Financing and Insurance
Operations business consist of GMAC and Other. GMAC provides a broad range of
financial services, including consumer vehicle financing, full-service leasing
and fleet leasing, dealer financing, car and truck extended service contracts,
residential and commercial mortgage services, and vehicle and homeowners
insurance. The Financing and Insurance Operations' Other segment includes
financing entities operating in Canada, Germany and Brazil.
The disaggregated financial results for GMA have been prepared using a
management approach, which is consistent with the basis and manner in which GM
management internally disaggregates financial information for the purposes of
assisting in making internal operating decisions. In this regard, certain common
expenses were allocated among regions less precisely than would be required for
standalone financial information prepared in accordance with generally accepted
accounting principles (GAAP) and certain expenses (primarily certain U.S. taxes
related to non-U.S. operations) were included in the Automotive, Electronics and
Other Operations' Other segment. The financial results represent the historical
information used by management for internal decision making purposes; therefore,
other data prepared to represent the way in which the business will operate in
the future, or data prepared on a GAAP basis, may be materially different.
II-3
GENERAL MOTORS CORPORATION AND SUBSIDIARIES
RESULTS OF OPERATIONS
In 1998, GM's consolidated income from continuing operations totaled $3.0
billion or $4.26 per share of $1-2/3 par value common stock, compared with $6.7
billion or $8.70 per share of $1-2/3 par value common stock and $5.0 billion or
$6.07 per share of $1-2/3 par value common stock in 1997 and 1996, respectively.
The 1998 financial results were impacted by charges of $420 million
after-tax, or $0.64 per share of $1-2/3 par value common stock, resulting from
GM's 1998 competitiveness studies (see Competitiveness Studies). The 1997
financial results were impacted by two significant items: a $4.3 billion
tax-free gain, or $5.91 per share of $1-2/3 par value common stock, resulting
from the December 17, 1997 completion of the strategic restructuring of former
Hughes (see Hughes Financial Review); and charges of $4.0 billion after-tax, or
$5.59 per share of $1-2/3 par value common stock, resulting from GM's 1997
competitiveness studies (see Competitiveness Studies). Excluding the impact of
these and other special items of $315 million in losses and $426 million in
income for 1998 and 1997, respectively, income was $3.7 billion, or $5.38 per
share of $1-2/3 par value common stock and $6.0 billion, or $7.90 per share of
$1-2/3 par value common stock for 1998 and 1997, respectively.
GM completed the split-off of Electronic Data Systems Corporation (EDS) on
June 7, 1996 and, accordingly, the financial results related to EDS through the
split-off date have been reported as discontinued operations. GM's 1996 net
income, including the income from discontinued operations through the June 7,
1996 split-off, totaled $5.0 billion or $6.06 per share of $1-2/3 par value
common stock. Additional information regarding the split-off of EDS is contained
in Note 1 to the GM consolidated financial statements.
Automotive, Electronics and Other Operations
- --------------------------------------------
Highlights of financial performance by GM's Automotive, Electronics and
Other Operations business were as follows for the years ended December 31,(in
millions):
1998(1) 1997(1) 1996(1)
---- ------- -------
Manufactured products sales and revenues
GMA $125,683 $134,121 $127,590
Delphi 28,479 31,447 31,032
Hughes 5,964 5,128 4,009
Other (19,693) (17,013) (17,290)
------- ------- -------
Manufactured products sale
and revenues $140,433 $153,683 $145,341
======== ======== ========
Net income (loss)
GMA $1,634 $449 $2,337
Delphi (93) 215 853
Hughes 272 471 184
Other (279) 4,245 348
---- ----- ---
Net income $1,534 $5,380 $3,722
====== ====== ======
- -----------------
(1)Adjustments have been made to reflect the impact of adjustments to Delphi's
management basis financial statements in connection with its initial public
offering. The 1997 and 1996 amounts have also been adjusted to reflect
the changes to GM's organizational structure resulting from the
restructuring of former Hughes which occurred in December 1997. As such,
Delphi amounts include Delco, Hughes amounts exclude Delco and Hughes
Defense, and Other includes Hughes Defense.
The GMA, Delphi, and Hughes Financial Reviews that are presented on pages
II-5 through II-11 reflect the change in GM's organizational structure resulting
from the restructuring of former Hughes.
II-4
GENERAL MOTORS CORPORATION AND SUBSIDIARIES
GMA Financial Highlights
Year Ended December 31,
--------------------------------
1998(1) 1997 (1) 1996 (1)
---- -------- --------
(Dollars in Millions)
GMNA
Manufactured products sale
and revenues $94,201 $100,256 $93,382
------- -------- -------
Pre-tax income (loss) 2,409 (249) 836
Income tax expense (benefit) 787 (272) 54
Earnings of nonconsolidated associates
and minority interests 13 (35) 37
-- --- --
GMNA income (loss) $1,635 $(12) $819
====== ==== ====
GME
Manufactured products sales
and revenues $25,036 $24,106 $25,528
------- ------- -------
Pre-tax income 740 256 1,053
Income tax expense 319 121 168
Earnings of nonconsolidated associates
and minority interests (2) (152) (107)
-- ---- ----
GME income (loss) $419 $(17) $778
==== ==== ====
GMLAAM
Manufactured products sales
and revenues $7,403 $8,572 $6,723
------ ------ ------
Pre-tax (loss) income (471) 536 667
Income tax (benefit) expense (213) 43 106
Earnings of nonconsolidated associates
and minority interests 83 174 81
-- --- --
GMLAAM (loss) income $(175) $667 $642
===== ==== ====
GMAP
Manufactured products sales
and revenues $2,923 $2,980 $3,001
------ ------ ------
Pre-tax (loss) income (82) (235) 63
Income tax expense (benefit) 9 (29) 32
Earnings of nonconsolidated associates
and minority interests (152) 34 79
---- -- --
GMAP (loss) income $(243) $(172) $110
===== ===== ====
GMA (2)
Manufactured products sales
and revenues $125,683 $134,121 $127,590
-------- -------- --------
Pre-tax income 2,594 279 2,600
Income tax expense (benefit) 902 (149) 353
Earnings of nonconsolidated associates
and minority interests (58) 21 90
--- -- --
GMA income $1,634 $449 $2,337
====== ==== ======
- --------------------
(1)Adjustments have been made to GMA's results to reflect the impact of
adjustments to Delphi's management basis financial statements in connection
with its initial public offering.
(2)GMA's results include eliminations of activity between GMNA, GME, GMLAAM,
GMAP.
II-5
GENERAL MOTORS CORPORATION AND SUBSIDIARIES
Vehicle Unit Deliveries of Cars and Trucks - GMA
Years Ended December 31,
-------------------------------------------------------------------------------
1998 1997 1996
GM as GM as GM as
a % of a % of a % of
Industry GM Industry Industry GM Industry Industry GM Industry
-------- -- -------- -------- -- -------- -------- -- --------
(Units in Thousands)
GMNA
United States
Cars 8,184 2,459 30.0% 8,289 2,689 32.4% 8,528 2,786 32.7%
Trucks 7,787 2,150 27.6% 7,212 2,077 28.8% 6,931 2,007 29.0%
----- ----- ----- ----- ----- -----
Total United
States 15,971 4,609 28.9% 15,501 4,766 30.8% 15,459 4,793 31.0%
Canada 1,427 428 30.0% 1,424 451 31.7% 1,203 381 31.7%
Mexico 664 175 26.3% 496 143 28.9% 332 89 26.8%
--- --- --- --- --- --
Total GMNA 18,062 5,212 28.9% 17,421 5,360 30.8% 16,994 5,263 31.0%
------ ----- ------ ----- ------ -----
GME
Germany 4,036 548 13.6% 3,792 566 14.9% 3,746 581 15.5%
United Kingdom 2,546 329 12.9% 2,445 338 13.8% 2,282 328 14.4%
Other West Europe 9,737 851 8.7% 8,942 804 9.0% 8,444 780 9.2%
----- --- ----- --- ----- ---
Total West Europe 16,319 1,728 10.6% 15,179 1,708 11.2% 14,472 1,689 11.7%
Central/East Europe 2,828 129 4.6% 2,918 125 4.3% 2,405 100 4.2%
----- --- ----- --- ----- ---
Total GME 19,147 1,857 9.7% 18,097 1,833 10.1% 16,877 1,789 10.6%
------ ----- ------ ----- ------ -----
GMLAAM
Brazil 1,533 344 22.5% 1,943 410 21.1% 1,731 384 22.2%
Venezuela 174 45 25.8% 178 48 26.7% 68 16 23.5%
Other Latin America 864 129 14.9% 885 130 14.7% 784 114 14.5%
--- --- --- --- --- ---
Total Latin America 2,571 518 20.2% 3,006 588 19.6% 2,583 514 19.9%
Africa 614 81 13.2% 673 106 15.7% 681 81 11.9%
Middle East 747 54 7.2% 693 52 7.5% 664 66 10.0%
--- -- --- -- --- --
Total GMLAAM 3,932 653 16.6% 4,372 746 17.1% 3,928 661 16.8%
----- --- ----- --- ----- ---
GMAP
Australia 808 157 19.5% 724 128 17.7% 651 131 20.1%
Other Asia and
Pacific 10,068 286 2.8% 12,564 447 3.6% 13,081 494 3.8%
------ --- ------ --- ------ ---
Total GMAP 10,876 443 4.1% 13,288 575 4.3% 13,732 625 4.6%
------ --- ------ --- ------ ---
Total Worldwide 52,017 8,165 15.7% 53,178 8,514 16.0% 51,531 8,338 16.2%
====== ===== ====== ===== ====== =====
Years Ended December 31,
----------------------------
1998 1997 1996
---- ---- ----
(Units in Thousands)
Wholesale Sales
GMNA
Cars 2,731 3,095 2,913
Trucks 2,340 2,454 2,239
----- ----- -----
Total GMNA 5,071 5,549 5,152
----- ----- -----
GME
Cars 1,882 1,708 1,673
Trucks 125 142 122
--- --- ---
Total GME 2,007 1,850 1,795
----- ----- -----
GMLAAM
Cars 404 495 459
Trucks 248 290 244
--- --- ---
Total GMLAAM 652 785 703
--- --- ---
GMAP
Cars 202 176 199
Trucks 217 416 414
--- --- ---
Total GMAP 419 592 613
--- --- ---
Total Worldwide 8,149 8,776 8,263
===== ===== =====
II-6
GENERAL MOTORS CORPORATION AND SUBSIDIARIES
GMA Financial Review
Including $228 million and $3.0 billion of after-tax charges for 1998 and
1997, respectively, related to the competitiveness studies (see Competitiveness
Studies), GMA's income was $1.6 billion and $449 million for 1998 and 1997,
respectively. Excluding the competitiveness studies charges, GMA's income was
$1.9 billion or 1.5% of manufactured products sales and revenues and $3.5
billion or 2.6% of manufactured products sales and revenues for 1998 and 1997,
respectively. Income was $2.3 billion or 1.8% of manufactured products sales and
revenues in 1996. The decrease in 1998 income was primarily due to lower
production volumes at GMNA associated with the work stoppages at two component
plants in Flint, Michigan, as discussed below, and the economic downturn
throughout Latin America, partially offset by material and structural cost
savings.
Members of United Auto Workers Locals 659 and 651 in Flint, Michigan ceased
production at two component plants on June 5 and June 11, 1998, respectively.
Work stoppages at both facilities were resolved July 28, 1998 when tentative
agreements were reached. Both agreements were ratified by the rank and file on
July 29, 1998. Operations began to accelerate to normal production levels July
30, 1998. These work stoppages had an aggregate unfavorable after-tax impact of
approximately $2.0 billion, or $2.94 per share of GM $1-2/3 par value common
stock during 1998 that resulted from a loss of approximately 371,000 units of
production. The above unfavorable after-tax impact represents the combined
effects for GMNA ($1.5 billion) and Delphi ($450 million).
The increase in 1997 income compared to 1996 (excluding the competitiveness
studies charges) was primarily due to higher wholesale sales volumes, continued
improvement in the profitability of new vehicles, and lower material and
engineering costs. These factors were partially offset by higher retail
incentives, increased commercial spending to support the numerous vehicle
launches, and the unfavorable impact of approximately $240 million after-tax
related to work stoppage production losses in 1997.
Manufactured products sales and revenues for 1998 were $125.7 billion, which
represented a decrease of $8.4 billion compared with 1997. The decrease was
largely due to a lower number of wholesale units sold as a result of the
previously mentioned work stoppages and the economic downturn throughout Latin
America. Manufactured products sales and revenues for 1997 were $134.1 billion,
which represented an increase of $6.5 billion compared with 1996. The
improvement was primarily due to a 513,000 unit increase in wholesale sales
volumes.
GMA reported 1998 pre-tax income of $2.6 billion compared with $279 million
and $2.6 billion for 1997 and 1996, respectively. Excluding the $224 million and
$4.7 billion pre-tax impact of the competitiveness studies charges, GMA's
pre-tax income was $2.8 billion and $5.0 billion for 1998 and 1997,
respectively. The decrease in 1998 pre-tax income (excluding the competitiveness
studies charges) was primarily due to the impact of lower wholesale sales
resulting from the previously mentioned work stoppages and higher retail
incentives, partially offset by material, engineering and manufacturing cost
improvements. The increase in 1997 pre-tax income was primarily due to higher
wholesale sales volumes, continued improvement in the profitability of new
vehicles, and lower material and engineering costs.
GMA's 1998 worldwide market share decreased to 15.7%, compared with 16.0% and
16.2% in 1997 and 1996, respectively. The decrease in market share was primarily
due to dealer inventory shortages due to the above mentioned work stoppages at
GMNA. GMNA's 1998 market share was 28.9% compared with 30.8% and 31.0% for 1997
and 1996, respectively.
GMNA reported income of $1.6 billion for 1998 compared with a loss of $12
million and income of $819 million for 1997 and 1996, respectively. Excluding
the competitiveness studies charges, GMNA's income was $1.7 billion and $2.4
billion for 1998 and 1997, respectively. The decrease in income for 1998
compared to 1997(excluding the competitiveness studies charges) was primarily
due to the previously discussed work stoppages, minimized by strong cost
performance which more than offset price reductions driven by competitive market
pressures. The 1998 cost performance resulted from quality initiatives, material
performance and reduced structural cost. The increase in income for 1997
compared to 1996 (excluding the competitiveness studies charges) was primarily
due to a 397,000 unit increase in wholesale sales volumes, continued improvement
in the profitability of new vehicles, and lower material and engineering costs.
These factors were partially offset by higher retail incentives, increased
commercial spending to support the numerous vehicle launches in progress, and
the unfavorable impact of the work stoppages.
GME reported income of $419 million for 1998 compared with a loss of $17
million and income of $778 million for 1997 and 1996, respectively. Excluding
the competitiveness studies charge, GME's income was $471 million for 1997.
GME's results also included an after-tax charge in 1998 of $44 million related
to work schedule modifications at Opel Belgium and after-tax gains in 1997 of
$103 million related to the sale of GME's interest in Avis Europe and $55
million related to a settlement agreement with Volkswagen A.G. Excluding these
items, GME's income was $463 million and $313 million for 1998 and 1997,
respectively. The increase in 1998 adjusted earnings compared to 1997 was
primarily due to savings on material costs and policy & warranty spending, as
well as lower equity losses from Saab Automobile A.B. (Saab). The decrease in
1997 adjusted earnings compared to 1996 was primarily due to higher sales and
marketing costs under intensely competitive market conditions, and lower equity
earnings from Saab related to the launch of the new 9-5 model. The 1996
Restructuring Agreement between GM and Saab's other owners (Investor A.B.)
includes certain provisions and options which may
II-7
GENERAL MOTORS CORPORATION AND SUBSIDIARIES
GMA Financial Review (concluded)
impact the relative ownership interests of the parties involved. The agreement
gives GM and Adam Opel the right to purchase up to 100% of Investor A.B.'s
interest in Saab during 1999 and 2000. Investor A.B. has the right to sell up to
50% of its present holdings in Saab to GM and Adam Opel in 2000. GM currently
maintains a 50% ownership interest in Saab.
GMLAAM reported a loss of $175 million for 1998 compared with income of $667
million and $642 million for 1997 and 1996, respectively. The decrease in 1998
earnings compared to 1997 was primarily due to the economic downturn throughout
Latin America, $51 million of after-tax charges in 1998 related to the
competitiveness studies, and higher incentive costs. The increase in 1997
earnings compared to 1996 was primarily due to an increase in wholesale sales.
The financial outlook for GMLAAM is uncertain for 1999 due to the ongoing
economic crisis in Latin America. In 1998, GMLAAM reduced employment levels by
approximately 21%, in an effort to resize the operations to the current
conditions. An additional reduction should be accomplished in 1999 by further
significant schedule adjustments. Capital spending has also been greatly reduced
to conserve cash in the region.
GMAP reported a loss of $243 million in 1998 compared with a loss of $172
million and income of $110 million for 1997 and 1996, respectively. Excluding
the competitiveness studies charges, GMAP's losses were $146 million and $2
million for 1998 and 1997, respectively. Higher losses for 1998 compared to
1997 were primarily attributable to decreased equity earnings at Isuzu resulting
from a write down of investments due to the economic downturn in Asia and
continued spending associated with GMAP's growth strategy. The decrease in 1997
earnings compared to 1996 was due to increased spending associated with GMAP's
growth strategy and the beginning of the economic downturn in Asia.
GMA's effective income tax (credit) rate for 1998 was 34.8% compared with
(53.0)% and 13.6% for 1997 and 1996, respectively. Excluding the previously
mentioned competitiveness studies charges, the effective income tax rates for
1998 and 1997 were 34.5% and 32.3%, respectively. These adjusted rates indicated
a return to a more normalized level. The lower 1996 tax rate resulted from
research and experimentation credits in the United States, a favorable
resolution of items related to GM's 1995 tax return, and a favorable tax
position in Mexico.
Delphi Financial Highlights
Years Ended December 31,
----------------------------
1998(1) 1997(1) 1996(1)
---- ------- -------
(Dollars in Millions)
Manufactured products sales and revenues $28,479 $31,447 $31,032
------- ------- -------
Pre-tax (loss) income (332) 223 1,052
Income tax (benefit) expense (173) 44 259
Minority interests 11 9 3
Earnings of nonconsolidated associates 55 27 57
-- -- --
(Loss) income $(93) $215 $853
==== ==== ====
- -----------------------
(1)The 1997 and 1997 amounts have been adjusted to reflect the changes to
GM's organizational structure resulting from the restructuring of former
Hughes which occurred in December 1997. As such, Delphi adjusted amounts
include Delco. Adjustments have also been made for all periods to
reflect the impact of adjustments to Delphi's management basis
financial statements in connection with its initial public offering.
Delphi Financial Review
Delphi reported a loss of $93 million for 1998 compared to income of $215
million and $853 million for 1997 and 1996, respectively. Delphi's results in
each of those years included the impact of several special items, all of which
are described below.
During the fourth quarter of 1998, Delphi recorded a $310 million charge
($192 million after-tax) related to its evaluation of the competitiveness of its
business (see Competitiveness Studies). During the third quarter of 1998, Delphi
recorded a loss of $430 million ($271 million after-tax) related to the
divestitures of its seating, lighting and coil spring businesses.
During the fourth quarter of 1997, Delphi recorded a $1.4 billion charge
($870 million after-tax) relating to an evaluation of the competitiveness of its
business (see Competitiveness Studies). During the first quarter of 1997, Delphi
recorded an $80 million plant closing charge ($50 million after-tax) relating to
a facility in Trenton, New Jersey.
During the fourth quarter of 1996, Delphi sold four facilities located in
Flint and Livonia, Michigan and Oshawa and Windsor, Ontario, which resulted in a
loss of $247 million ($153 million after-tax). Also, retiree lump sum benefit
payments resulting from U.S. labor negotiations during 1996 resulted in a fourth
quarter charge of $86 million ($53 million after-tax).
II-8
GENERAL MOTORS CORPORATION AND SUBSIDIARIES
Delphi Financial Review (concluded)
Income, excluding the impact of special items discussed above, was $370
million for 1998 compared to income of $1.1 billion for both 1997 and 1996. The
decrease in 1998 income, excluding the impact of special items, primarily
reflects unfavorable volumes due to the impact of work stoppages during 1998 at
certain GM and Delphi locations as well as the economic downturn throughout Asia
and Latin America during 1998. For the 1998 year, material and manufacturing
cost savings exceeded the impact of price reductions and unrecovered design
costs and partially offset the unfavorable impact of lower volume. Income in
1997, excluding the impact of special items, increased $76 million due to lower
material and manufacturing costs and the net impact of work stoppages that
occurred in 1997 compared to the three work stoppages during 1996 at certain GM
and Delphi locations.
Manufactured products sales and revenues for 1998 totaled $28.5 billion
compared with $31.4 billion in 1997, a decrease of $3.0 billion. The decrease
reflects unfavorable volumes associated with work stoppages; lost fourth quarter
revenues associated with divested businesses with historical annual net sales of
approximately $2.0 billion; and economic conditions in Asia and Latin America,
as well as the impact of price reductions during 1998. Manufactured products
sales and revenues for 1997 increased over $400 million compared to 1996. The
increase reflects improved sales volumes to non-GM customers as well as higher
production by GMNA during 1997. These improved volumes during 1997 were
partially offset by the impact of the 1996 sale of four plants with annual
revenues of approximately $1.0 billion as well as continued pricing pressures.
The effective income tax rate for 1998 was a 52.1% credit compared to an
effective income tax rate of 19.7% for 1997. During 1998, certain deductions and
tax credits remained constant while taxable income decreased substantially,
resulting in a greater effective tax benefit as a percentage of pretax loss. The
effective income tax rate for 1996 was 24.6%. The lower effective rates for 1997
and 1996 reflect the favorable impact of state, local and foreign tax rates
which were generally lower than the U.S. federal statutory rate and the impact
of research and experimentation credits.
Earnings of nonconsolidated associates increased $28 million during 1998
compared to 1997. The increase primarily reflects improved profitability for
certain new and established ventures. Earnings of nonconsolidated associates
decreased to $27 million in 1997 compared with $57 million in 1996. The decrease
reflects the sale of certain minority owned investments and the unfavorable
impact of economic volatility on overseas joint ventures.
II-9
GENERAL MOTORS CORPORATION AND SUBSIDIARIES
Hughes Financial Highlights
Years Ended December 31,
-----------------------------------
1998 1997(1) 1996(1)
---- ------- -------
(Dollars in Millions Except Per Share Amounts)
Revenues $5,964 $5,128 $4,009
------ ------ ------
Pre-tax income 310 734 257
Income tax (benefit) expense (45) 237 105
Minority interests 24 25 53
Losses in nonconsolidated associates (128) (72) (42)
---- --- ---
Net income $251 $450 $163
==== ==== ====
Earnings used for computation of Available
Separate Consolidated Net Income (2) $272 $471 $184
Earnings per share attributable
to Class H common stock (3) $0.68 $1.18 $0.46
- ------------
(1)The 1997 and 1996 amounts relate only to the telecommunications and space
business of former Hughes to reflect the changes to GM's organizational
structure resulting from the Hughes Transactions which occurred in December
1997. See further discussion of Hughes Transactions below.
(2)Excludes amortization of GM purchase accounting adjustments of $21 million
in each of the years related to GM's acquisition of Hughes Aircraft Company
(HAC) in 1985.
(3)For 1997 and 1996, earnings per share attributable to Class H common stock
are presented on a pro forma basis. Prior to the Hughes Transactions, such
amounts were calculated based on the financial performance of former Hughes.
Since the financial highlights for 1997 and 1996 relate only to the
telecommunications and space business of former Hughes, they do not reflect
the earnings per share attributable to the former Class H common stock on a
historical basis. The pro forma presentation, therefore, presents the
financial results which would have been achieved for 1997 and 1996 relative
to the Class H common stock based solely on the performance of the
telecommunications and space business of former Hughes. See Hughes Financial
Review for further discussion.
Hughes Financial Review
On December 17, 1997, GM and former Hughes completed a series of transactions
(Hughes Transactions) that were designed to address strategic challenges facing
the three principal businesses of former Hughes (consisting of the defense
electronics, automotive electronics and telecommunications and space
businesses). The Hughes Transactions included the tax-free spin-off of the
defense electronics business of former Hughes (Hughes Defense) to holders of
GM's $1-2/3 par value and Class H common stocks, the transfer of Delco from
former Hughes to Delphi, and the recapitalization of Class H common stock into a
new GM tracking stock, Class H common stock, that is linked to the remaining
telecommunications and space business of Hughes. The Hughes Transactions were
followed immediately by the merger of Hughes Defense with Raytheon Company. The
1997 and 1996 amounts presented for Hughes relate only to the telecommunications
and space businesses of former Hughes.
Revenues increased to $6.0 billion in 1998, compared with $5.1 billion in
1997 and $4.0 billion in 1996. The 1998 revenue growth was propelled by an
increase in the DIRECTV(R) businesses due to strong subscriber growth and
average monthly revenues per subscriber, as well as low subscriber churn rates;
an increase at PanAmSat primarily from the May 1997 PanAmSat merger and
increased operating lease revenues for video, data and Internet-related
services; higher commercial satellite sales; and higher sales of DIRECTV(TM)
receiver equipment. The 1997 increase was due primarily to strong DIRECTV
subscriber growth, higher sales of commercial satellites and completion of the
PanAmSat merger.
Operating profit, excluding amortization of purchase accounting adjustments
related to GM's acquisition of HAC, was $270 million in 1998 compared with $306
million and $210 million in 1997 and 1996, respectively. Full-year 1998
operating profit margin on the same basis was 4.5% compared with 6.0% in 1997
and 5.2% in 1996. The lower 1998 operating profit and operating profit margin
were principally a result of lower sales of wireless telephone systems and
private business networks in the Asia Pacific region, as well as provisions for
estimated losses associated with uncollectible amounts due from certain wireless
customers at Hughes Network Systems. These were offset in part by the lower
operating losses at domestic DIRECTV and higher operating profit at PanAmSat.
The increase in 1997 operating profit and operating profit margin resulted
primarily from the completion of the PanAmSat merger, reduced losses in the
DIRECTV business and higher commercial satellite sales.
II-10
GENERAL MOTORS CORPORATION AND SUBSIDIARIES
Hughes Financial Review (concluded)
Pre-tax income was $310 million in 1998, compared with $734 million and
$257 million in 1997 and 1996, respectively. The decrease in 1998 primarily
resulted from the 1997 $490 million pre-tax gain recognized in connection with
the PanmSat merger in 1997, goodwill amortization associated with the PanAmSat
merger and a provision for uncollectible amounts due from certain wireless
customers, offset by a decrease in interest expense and an increase in interest
income. The increase in 1997 of $477 million from 1996 reflects the $490 million
pre-tax gain discussed above, the completion of the PanAmSat merger, reduced
losses in the DIRECTV business and higher commercial satellite sales. Nineteen
ninety-six included the $120 million pre-tax gain recognized from the sale of
2.5% of DIRECTV to AT&T. The effective income tax rate for 1998 was (14.5)%,
compared with 32.3% and 40.9% in 1997 and 1996, respectively.
The effective income tax rate in 1998 benefited from the favorable
adjustment relating to an agreement with the Internal Revenue Service regarding
the treatment of research and experimentation costs for the years 1983 through
1995. The 1997 decrease in the effective income tax rate was due primarily to an
increase in research and experimentation credits and the favorable resolution of
certain tax contingencies.
Excluding amortization of purchase accounting adjustments related to GM's
acquisition of HAC, Hughes' earnings used for computation of available separate
consolidated net income for 1998 was $272 million compared with $471 million and
$184 million in 1997 and 1996, respectively.
In May 1998, Hughes purchased an additional 9.5% interest in PanAmSat,
increasing Hughes' ownership interest in PanAmSat to 81.0%.
In October 1998, Hughes agreed to acquire, pending regulatory approval in
Mexico, an additional ownership interest in Grupo Galaxy Mexicana, S.A. de C.V.
(GGM), a Galaxy Latin America, LCC (GLA) local operating company located in
Mexico, from Grupo MVS, S.A. de C.V. (MVS). Hughes' equity ownership will
represent 49.0% of the voting equity and all of the non-voting equity of GGM. As
part of the transaction, Hughes acquired from MVS an additional 10.0% interest
in GLA, increasing its ownership interest to 70.0% as well as an additional
19.8% interest in SurFin Ltd., increasing its ownership percentage to 59.1%.
In December 1998, Hughes agreed to acquire all of the outstanding capital
stock of United States Satellite Broadcasting Company, Inc. (USSB). USSB
provides direct-to-home premium satellite programming in conjunction with
DIRECTV's basic programming service. USSB launched its service in June 1994 and,
as of December 31, 1998, had more than two million subscribers nationwide. The
acquisition will be accounted for using the purchase method of accounting. The
purchase price, consisting of cash and GM Class H common stock, will be
determined at closing based upon an agreed-upon formula and will not exceed $1.6
billion in the aggregate. Subject to certain limitations in the merger
agreement, USSB shareholders will be entitled to elect to receive cash or shares
of GM Class H common stock. The amount of cash to be paid in the merger cannot
be less than 30% or greater than 50% of the aggregate purchase price with the
remaining consideration consisting of GM Class H common stock. The merger, which
is subject to USSB shareholder approval and the receipt of appropriate
regulatory approvals, is expected to close in early to mid-1999. In January
1999, Hughes agreed to acquire Primestar, Inc.'s (Primestar) 2.3
million-subscriber medium-power direct-to-home business. In a related
transaction, Hughes also agreed to acquire the high-power satellite assets and
direct broadcast satellite (DBS) orbital frequencies of Tempo, a wholly-owned
subsidiary of TCI Satellite Entertainment, Inc. The Primestar transaction,
pending regulatory and Primestar lender approval, is expected to close in early
to mid-1999. The Tempo transaction, pending regulatory approval, is expected to
close in mid to late-1999.
II-11
GENERAL MOTORS CORPORATION AND SUBSIDIARIES
Financing and Insurance Operations
- ----------------------------------
Highlights of financial performance by GM's Financing and Insurance Operations
business were as follows for the years ended December 31, (in millions):
1998 1997 1996
---- ---- ----
Financing revenues
GMAC $12,731 $12,577 $12,644
Other 854 185 30
--- --- --
Total $13,585 $12,762 $12,674
======= ======= =======
Net income
GMAC $1,325 $1,301 $1,240
Other 97 17 1
-- -- -
Total $1,422 $1,318 $1,241
====== ====== ======
GMAC Financial Highlights
Years Ended December 31,
-----------------------------
1998 1997 1996
---- ---- ----
(Dollars in Millions)
Financing revenues
Retail and lease financing $3,869 $3,571 $3,822
Operating leases 7,233 7,260 7,215
Wholesale and term loans 1,629 1,746 1,607
----- ----- -----
Total financing revenues 12,731 12,577 12,644
Interest and discount 5,787 5,256 4,938
Depreciation on operating leases 4,693 4,677 4,627
----- ----- -----
Net financing revenue 2,251 2,644 3,079
Mortgage revenue 2,030 1,499 944
Insurance premiums earned 1,859 1,360 1,158
Other income 1,295 1,159 1,228
----- ----- -----
Net financing revenue and other 7,435 6,662 6,409
Expenses 5,498 4,448 4,332
----- ----- -----
Pre-tax income 1,937 2,214 2,077
Income tax expense 612 913 837
--- --- ---
Net income $1,325 $1,301 $1,240
====== ====== ======
Net income from automotive financing operations $984 $910 $946
Net income from mortgage operations 115 167 102
Net income from insurance operations 226 224 192
--- --- ---
Net income $1,325 $1,301 $1,240
====== ====== ======
GMAC Financial Review
GMAC's 1998 consolidated net income increased 2% over 1997 to $1.3 billion.
Net income from automotive financing operations totaled $984 million, up 8% from
1997. Earnings were higher due to retail asset growth, reduced credit losses and
a lower effective income tax rate, partially offset by lower net interest
margins and lower wholesale volume. Net income from insurance operations totaled
$226 million, up from the $224 million earned in 1997. Net income from mortgage
operations totaled $115 million, down from $167 million earned in 1997. Earnings
were lower primarily as a result of reduced mortgage asset values due to higher
prepayment levels.
During 1998, GMAC financed 41.8% of new GM vehicle retail deliveries in the
United States, up from 33.1% and 28.4% in 1997 and 1996, respectively. The
improvements since 1996 primarily reflect higher volumes generated through
special rate financing and lease incentive programs sponsored by GM. This
improvement was achieved amid continued competitive pressures in the automotive
financing marketplace.
II-12
GENERAL MOTORS CORPORATION AND SUBSIDIARIES
GMAC Financial Review (concluded)
GMAC's automotive financing revenue totaled $12.7 billion in 1998, compared
with $12.6 billion for both 1997 and 1996. Higher retail financing revenues in
1998 were partially offset by a decline in wholesale revenues, principally from
the reduction in average wholesale receivable balances related to the GM work
stoppages.
GMAC's worldwide cost of borrowing decreased to 5.99%, compared with 6.30%
and 6.57% in 1997 and 1996, respectively. The cost of borrowings in the United
States was 5.89% in 1998, down from 6.39% and 6.51% in 1997 and 1996,
respectively. The lower average borrowing costs since 1996 are largely a result
of a decrease in U.S. interest rates and a greater proportion of floating rate
debt compared to fixed rate debt.
Net automotive financing revenue combined with mortgage revenue, insurance
premiums, and other income increased to $7.4 billion, compared with $6.7 billion
and $6.4 billion in 1997 and 1996, respectively. The increases in 1998 and 1997
are primarily due to results from mortgage and insurance operations, partially
offset by reduced net automotive financing margins.
Expenses increased by $1.1 billion and $116 million in 1998 and 1997,
respectively. The increases during 1998 and 1997 were primarily due to higher
costs for salaries and benefits, increased insurance losses, and other operating
charges incidental to expanding mortgage and insurance business activities.
GMAC's effective income tax rate for 1998 was 31.6%, compared with 41.2% in
1997 and 40.3% in 1996. The favorable change in 1998 was primarily attributable
to lower U.S. and foreign taxes assessed on foreign source income and a
favorable change resulting from periodic assessments of state and local income
tax accruals. The unfavorable change in 1997 was primarily attributable to
increases in accruals from prior years based on periodic assessment of the
adequacy of such accruals and higher state and local income taxes.
Competitiveness Studies
The global automotive industry, including the automotive components and
systems market, continues to be increasingly competitive and is presently
undergoing significant restructuring and consolidation activities. All of the
major industry participants are continuing to increase their focus on efficiency
and cost improvements, while excess capacity led to continuing price pressures.
As a result, GMNA, Delphi, GME, GMLAAM, and GMAP initiated studies in 1997
concerning the long-term competitiveness of all facets of their businesses. As
market conditions continued to warrant such review, the competitiveness studies
were again completed in 1998 in conjunction with the annual business planning
cycle. Additional information regarding the competitiveness studies is contained
in Note 2 to the GM consolidated financial statements.
Based on the results of these competitiveness studies, GM recorded pre-tax
charges against income totaling $534 million ($420 million after tax, or $0.64
per share of $1-2/3 par value common stock) in 1998 and $6.4 billion ($4.0
billion after-tax, or $5.59 per share of $1-2/3 par value common stock) in 1997.
In 1998, the pre-tax charges were comprised of $105 million ($80 million
after-tax) for GMNA, $310 million ($192 million after-tax) for Delphi, $82
million ($51 million after-tax) for GMLAAM, and $37 million ($97 million
after-tax) for GMAP. Overall, these charges had the effect of increasing 1998
cost of sales, depreciation and amortization and other expenses by $246 million,
$223 million and $65 million, respectively. In 1997, the pre-tax charges were
comprised of $3.8 billion ($2.4 billion after tax) for GMNA, $1.4 billion ($870
million after-tax) for Delphi, $848 million ($488 million after-tax) for GME,
$174 million ($170 million after-tax) for GMAP and $205 million ($128 million
after-tax) for GM Automotive, Electronics and Other Operations' Other segment.
These charges reduced 1997 net sales and revenues by $548 million and increased
cost of sales, depreciation and amortization, and other expenses by $1.7
billion, $4.1 billion and $72 million, respectively. Accruals related to
capacity reductions and expenses that were part of the 1997 charges that still
remain as of December 31, 1998 total $1.1 billion. Going forward, GM's future
cash requirements relating to the 1998 and 1997 charges are expected to total
approximately $1.4 billion over the next five years, with over 70% evenly
expended over the first three years.
The competitiveness studies charges included amounts for underperforming
assets, including both vehicle and component manufacturing assets, pursuant to
GM's policy for the valuation of long-lived assets. Future investments relating
to underperforming product lines will be expensed. Charges also include amounts
for voluntary employee separation programs, recorded when the employee accepts
the offer in accordance with GM's policy for such programs.
GM will continue to monitor the competitiveness of all aspects of its
businesses and further competitiveness studies will be undertaken when and as
market conditions warrant.
II-13
GENERAL MOTORS CORPORATION AND SUBSIDIARIES
Year 2000
Many computerized systems and microprocessors that are embedded in a variety
of products either made or used by GM have the potential for operational
problems if they lack the ability to handle the transition to the Year 2000.
Because this issue has the potential to cause disruption of GM's business
operations, GM has developed a comprehensive worldwide program to identify and
remediate potential Year 2000 problems in its business information systems and
other systems embedded in its engineering and manufacturing operations.
Additionally, GM has initiated communications and site assessments with its
suppliers, its dealers and other third parties in order to assess and reduce the
risk that GM's operations could be adversely affected by the failure of these
third parties to adequately address the Year 2000 issue.
One of GM's first priorities was the analysis of microprocessors used in GM
passenger cars and trucks. This review included all current and planned models
as well as the electronics in older cars and trucks produced during the period
of approximately the last 15 years. GM began installing microchips capable of
processing date information approximately 15 years ago. Most of the processors
reviewed have no date-related functionality, and accordingly have no Year 2000
issues. Of the vehicles with processors that perform date-related functions,
none have any Year 2000 issues.
GM's Year 2000 program teams are responsible for remediating all of GM's
information technology and embedded systems. Information technology principally
consists of business information systems (such as mainframe and other shared
computers and associated business application software) and infrastructure (such
as personal computers, operating systems, networks and devices like switches and
routers). Embedded systems include microprocessors used in factory automation
and in systems such as elevators, security and facility management. GM's Year
2000 program includes assessment and remediation services provided by Electronic
Data Systems Corporation (EDS) pursuant to a Master Service Agreement with GM.
The Year 2000 program is being implemented in seven phases, some of which are
being conducted concurrently:
Inventory -- identification and validation of an inventory of all systems
that could be affected by the Year 2000 issue. The inventory phase commenced
in earnest in 1996 and is substantially complete. It has identified
approximately 7,600 business information systems and about 1.7 million
infrastructure items and embedded systems.
Assessment -- initial testing, code scanning, and supplier contacts to
determine whether remediation is needed and developing a remediation plan,
if applicable. The assessment of business information systems is
substantially complete and included a determination that about one quarter
of such systems should be regarded as "critical" based on criteria such as
the potential for business disruption. The assessment of infrastructure
items and embedded systems was substantially completed by the end of 1998.
Remediation -- design and execution of a remediation plan, followed by
testing for adherence to the design. GM has substantially completed the
remediation of its critical and non-critical systems. A small number of
systems will be remediated or replaced in 1999. Unimportant systems have
been and will continue to be removed from GM's Year 2000 inventory and will
not be remediated. GM believes that it will meet its targets for Year 2000
readiness. In the normal course of its business plans, GM's Delphi
Automotive Systems unit is incrementally implementing enterprise software
that will replace and thereby eliminate the need to remediate certain
existing systems. Implementation of this software at several Delphi sites is
scheduled for completion in the first quarter of 1999, and another Delphi
site implementation is not expected to be complete until July 1999.
System Test -- testing of remediated items to ensure that they function
normally after being replaced in their original operating environment. This
phase is closely related to the remediation phase and follows essentially
the same schedule.
Implementation -- return of items to normal operation after satisfactory
performance in system testing. This phase follows essentially the same
schedule as remediation and system testing.
Readiness Testing -- planning for and testing of integrated systems in a
Year 2000 ready environment, including ongoing auditing and follow-up.
Readiness testing is currently underway. This phase commenced during the
fourth quarter of 1998 and is expected to be the major focus of the Year
2000 program throughout 1999.
II-14
GENERAL MOTORS CORPORATION AND SUBSIDIARIES
Year 2000 (continued)
Contingency Planning -- development and execution of plans that narrow the
focus on specific areas of significant concern and concentrate resources to
address them. GM currently believes that the most reasonably likely worst
case scenario is that there will be some localized disruptions of systems
that will affect individual business processes, facilities or suppliers for
a short time rather than systemic or long-term problems affecting its
business operations as a whole. GM contingency planning will continue to
identify systems or other aspects of GM's business or that of its suppliers
that it believes would be most likely to experience Year 2000 problems. GM
contingency planning will also address those business operations in which a
localized disruption could have the potential for causing a wider problem by
interrupting the flow of products, materials or data to other operations.
Because there is uncertainty as to which activities may be affected and the
exact nature of the problems that may arise, GM's contingency planning will
focus on minimizing the scope and duration of any disruptions by having
sufficient personnel, inventory and other resources in place to permit a
flexible, real-time response to specific problems as they may arise at
individual locations around the world. Some of the actions that GM may
consider include the deployment of emergency response teams on a regional or
local basis and the development of plans for the allocation, stockpiling or
re-sourcing of components and materials that may be critical to our
continued production. Specific contingency plans and resources for
permitting the necessary flexibility of response are expected to be
identified and put into place commencing in mid-1999.
GM's communication with its suppliers is a focused element of the assessment
and remediation phases described above. GM is a leading participant in an
industry trade association, the Automotive Industry Action Group, which has
distributed Year 2000 compliance questionnaires as well as numerous awareness
and assistance mailings to about half of the 100,000 supplier sites that supply
GM throughout the world. Responses to these questionnaires, which were generally
sent to GM's principal suppliers, have been received from about half of the
supplier sites to which they were sent. Many of the non-responding suppliers are
communicating directly with GM on an informal basis. Additionally, GM has
initiated its own review of suppliers considered to be critical to GM's
operations, including more than 2,400 on-site assessments to date. These
assessment efforts have been substantially completed with respect to the
critical supplier sites. Based on its assessment activity to date, GM believes
that a substantial majority of its suppliers are making acceptable progress
toward Year 2000 readiness. GM has established a program to provide further
assistance to suppliers that desire more input or that are believed to be at
high risk of noncompliance as a result of the foregoing assessment efforts. This
supplier assistance program currently includes providing compliance workshops
and remediation consultants to work with suppliers on developing and
implementing their own remediation programs. GM's contingency planning efforts
described above are also expected to address any critical suppliers that GM
identifies as being at high risk of encountering Year 2000 problems.
GM is not relying entirely on the receipt of written assurances from
suppliers with respect to their Year 2000 compliance. GM is also evaluating
certain suppliers on a first-hand basis and seeking to enhance their likelihood
of full Year 2000 readiness by actively assisting them with training and
consultation regarding Year 2000 remediation projects. GM expects that
information from our suppliers, written responses and interactions with them,
will provide GM with a basis for further contingency planning and risk
management.
GM also has a program to work with its independent dealers on their Year 2000
readiness. This program includes distributing materials that assist dealers in
designing and executing their own assessment and remediation efforts. GM has
also included Year 2000 compliance criteria as part of its established program
for certifying that third-party business information systems properly interface
with other systems provided to dealers by GM.
GM's direct Year 2000 program cost is being expensed as incurred with the
exception of capitalizable replacement hardware and, beginning in 1999,
internal-use software. Total incremental spending by GM is not expected to be
material to the Corporation's operations, liquidity or capital resources.
In addition to the work for which GM has direct financial responsibility, EDS
is providing Year 2000-related services to GM, as required under the Master
Service Agreement. These services are being provided by EDS as part of normal
fixed price services and other on-going payments to EDS. GM's current forecast
is that its total direct expenditures, and the value of services performed by
EDS attributable to GM's Year 2000 program, will be between approximately $710
million and $780 million for its entire Year 2000 program. Of this amount, GM
currently expects its total Year 2000 direct spending to be between
approximately $450 million and $520 million, with peak spending occurring in the
last quarter of 1998, and early in 1999. This total direct spending estimate
includes an additional payment of $75 million that GM has agreed to pay to EDS
at the end of the first quarter of 2000 if systems remediated by EDS under the
Master Service Agreement do not cause a significant business disruption that
results in a material financial loss to GM due to the millennium change. The
estimated value of the services that EDS is required to provide to GM under the
Master Service Agreement, attributable to work being performed in connection
with GM's Year 2000 program, is approximately $335 million.
II-15
GENERAL MOTORS CORPORATION AND SUBSIDIARIES
Year 2000 (concluded)
GM incurred approximately $40 million of Year 2000 expense during 1997 and
approximately $145 million in 1998. Also, the estimated value of services
provided to GM by EDS during 1997 and 1998 under the Master Service Agreement
that were attributable to work performed in connection with GM's Year 2000
program, was approximately $260 million. Thus, the total direct expenditures by
GM, and value of Year 2000-related services performed by EDS in 1997 and 1998,
attributable to GM's Year 2000 program, amounted to approximately $445 million.
Despite the incremental Year 2000 spending expected to be incurred throughout
the Corporation, GM's current business plan projects continued declining
information technology expenses. GM's total Year 2000 costs noted above do not
include information technology projects that have been accelerated due to Year
2000, which are estimated to be approximately $30 million.
In view of the foregoing, GM does not currently anticipate that it will
experience a significant disruption of its business as a result of the Year 2000
issue. However, there is still uncertainty about the broader scope of the Year
2000 issue as it may affect GM and third parties that are critical to GM's
operations. For example, lack of readiness by electrical and water utilities,
financial institutions, government agencies or other providers of general
infrastructure could, in some geographic areas, pose significant impediments to
GM's ability to carry on its normal operations in the area or areas so affected.
In the event that GM is unable to complete its remedial actions as described
above and is unable to implement adequate contingency plans in the event that
problems are encountered, there could be a material adverse effect on GM's
business, results of operations or financial condition.
The foregoing discussion describes the Year 2000 program being implemented by
GM and its consolidated subsidiaries other than Hughes. Information about the
Year 2000 efforts of Hughes can be found in Exhibit 99.
Statements made herein about the implementation of various phases of GM's
Year 2000 program, the costs expected to be associated with that program and the
results that GM expects to achieve constitute forward-looking information. As
noted above, there are many uncertainties involved in the Year 2000 issue,
including the extent to which GM will be able to successfully remediate systems
and adequately provide for contingencies that may arise, as well as the broader
scope of the Year 2000 issue as it may affect third parties that are not
controlled by GM. Accordingly, the costs and results of GM's Year 2000 program
and the extent of any impact on GM's operations could vary materially from those
stated herein.
LIQUIDITY AND CAPITAL RESOURCES
Automotive, Electronics and Other Operations
- --------------------------------------------
Cash, marketable securities, and $3.0 billion of assets of the Voluntary
Employees' Beneficiary Association (VEBA) trust invested in fixed-income
securities, at December 31, 1998 totaled $14.1 billion compared with $17.5
billion at December 31, 1997. During 1997, GM elected to pre-fund part of its
other postretirement benefits liability, which is primarily related to
postretirement health care expenses, by creating a VEBA trust. The total VEBA
assets, which approximated $4.6 billion and $3.0 billion at December 31, 1998
and 1997, respectively, had the effect of reducing GM's postretirement benefits
liability on the consolidated balance sheet.
Net liquidity, calculated as cash and marketable securities less the total of
loans payable and long-term debt, was $2.4 billion at December 31, 1998, a
decrease of $5.8 billion from the prior year. GM previously indicated that it
had a goal of maintaining $13.0 billion of cash and marketable securities in
order to continue funding product development programs throughout the next
downturn in the business cycle. This $13.0 billion target includes cash to pay
certain costs that were pre-funded in part by VEBA contributions.
Long-term debt was $7.2 billion at December 31, 1998, an increase of
approximately $1.5 billion from the prior year. The ratio of long-term debt to
long-term debt and GM investment in Automotive, Electronics and Other Operations
was 58.8% and 38.9% at December 31, 1998 and 1997, respectively. The ratio of
long-term debt and short-term loans payable to the total of this debt and GM
investment was 63.3% and 41.5% at December 31, 1998 and 1997, respectively.
GM believes it has sufficient resources to meet anticipated future cash flow
requirements. In addition to cash flows from operations, GM and its subsidiaries
maintain substantial lines of credit with various financial institutions.
Additional information on GM's available credit facilities is contained in Note
10 to the GM consolidated financial statements.
II-16
GENERAL MOTORS CORPORATION AND SUBSIDIARIES
Financing and Insurance Operations
- ----------------------------------
GM's Financing and Insurance Operations primarily consist of GMAC. At
December 31, 1998, GMAC owned assets and serviced automotive receivables for
others totaling $138.7 billion compared with $121.2 billion at year end 1997.
Earning assets totaled $125.1 billion and $104.0 billion at December 31, 1998
and 1997, respectively. The increase in earning assets was primarily
attributable to increases in automotive finance receivables outstanding,
operating lease assets, the investments in securities portfolio, real estate
mortgages outstanding and receivables due from GM. Cash and cash equivalents
totaled $618 million and $759 million at December 31, 1998 and 1997,
respectively.
GMAC's consolidated finance receivables, net of unearned income, totaled
$72.1 billion and $60.0 billion at December 31, 1998 and 1997, respectively. The
higher outstanding balance was primarily attributable to a $7.5 billion
worldwide increase in retail receivables, a $3.1 billion increase in U.S. and
European wholesale receivables and a $1.8 billion increase in term loans.
GMAC's liquidity, as well as its ability to profit from ongoing acquisition
activity, is in large part dependent on its access to capital and the costs
associated with raising funds in different segments of the capital markets. In
this regard, GMAC regularly accesses the short-, medium-, and long-term debt
markets, principally through commercial paper, term notes, and underwritten
issuances. GMAC's borrowings outstanding at December 31, 1998 totaled $103.8
billion compared with $86.7 billion at December 31, 1997. GMAC's ratio of debt
to stockholder's equity at December 31, 1998 was 10.6:1, up from 9.9:1 at
December 31, 1997. The higher year-to-year debt levels were principally used to
fund increased asset levels. GMAC has continued to use an asset securitization
program as an alternative funding source and has sold finance receivables that
it continues to service for a fee. The servicing portfolio of sold finance
receivables totaled $7.3 billion and $12.4 billion at December 31, 1998 and
1997, respectively.
GMAC and its subsidiaries maintain substantial bank lines of credit, which
totaled $42.9 billion and $39.8 billion at December 31, 1998 and 1997,
respectively. The unused portion of these credit lines totaled $33.2 billion at
December 31, 1998, which was $2.8 billion higher than at December 31, 1997.
Book Value Per Share
Book value per share of $1-2/3 par value common stock decreased to $19.90
from $22.26 at December 31, 1998 and 1997, respectively. Book value per share of
Class H common stock decreased to $11.94 at December 31, 1998 from $13.36 at
December 31, 1997. Book value per share was determined based on the liquidation
rights of the various classes of common stock.
Stock Repurchases
In February 1998, the GM Board of Directors (GM Board) approved a $4.0
billion stock repurchase program. Due to the previously mentioned work stoppages
during the second and third quarters of 1998, stock repurchases were temporarily
suspended as part of GM's cash conservation initiatives. The stock repurchases
were reinstated during the first quarter of 1999 and are expected to be
completed by the end of 1999. Upon completion of the $4.0 billion stock
repurchase program, GM's stock repurchases since January 1997 will total $9.0
billion. In January 1999, GM announced its intention to redeem the Series B
Preference Stock pursuant to its option to do so which commenced on January 1,
1999.
CASH FLOWS
Automotive, Electronics and Other Operations
- --------------------------------------------
Net cash provided by operating activities was $9.3 billion, $12.8 billion,
and $14.5 billion in 1998, 1997, and 1996, respectively. The decrease in net
cash provided by operating activities in 1998 primarily resulted from a decrease
in cash generated from lower net income primarily due to the work stoppages
previously discussed, partially offset by lower VEBA contributions in 1998. The
decrease in net cash provided by operating activities in 1997 primarily resulted
from a $3.0 billion VEBA contribution, and a $3.5 billion increase in deferred
tax assets, partially offset by a $500 million year-over-year increase in other
operating assets and liabilities and a $1.7 billion year-over-year increase in
income from continuing operations. Depreciation and amortization expenses
increased by $4.7 billion in 1997 primarily due to the competitiveness studies
charges.
II-17
GENERAL MOTORS CORPORATION AND SUBSIDIARIES
Automotive, Electronics and Other Operations (concluded)
- --------------------------------------------------------
Net cash used in investing activities was relatively unchanged at $8.6
billion for 1998 and 1997. The increase in cash due to the net change in
investments in other marketable securities and operating leases in 1998 was
offset by the proceeds from borrowings of Hughes Defense prior to the spin-off
of Hughes Defense in 1997. Net cash used in investing activities decreased $1.3
billion in 1997 from $9.9 billion in 1996. This decrease was primarily due to
GM's receipt of $4.0 billion in proceeds from borrowings of Hughes Defense,
partially offset by a $1.7 billion increase in investments in companies, net of
cash acquired, which primarily related to the completion of the merger of the
satellite service operations of former Hughes and PanAmSat. These amounts were
also offset by an intercompany payment from EDS prior to its separation in 1996
and lower dividends received from GMAC in 1997.
Net cash used in financing activities was $2.1 billion, $6.7 billion, and
$1.2 billion in 1998, 1997 and 1996, respectively. The decrease in cash used for
financing activities in 1998 was primarily due to a $3.3 billion net increase in
loans payable and long-term debt and a decrease in cash used for stock
repurchases. Net cash used in financing activities increased $5.5 billion in
1997 compared to 1996. During 1997, GM used $3.8 billion to acquire 63.5 million
shares of $1-2/3 par value common stock. GM also used approximately $600 million
to repurchase shares of $1-2/3 par value common stock for certain employee
benefit plans during 1997. Also in 1997, net cash flows used in association with
changes in long-term debt increased by approximately $1.8 billion compared with
1996 and reflected a combination of refinancing and retirement using GM's new
commercial paper program and cash received in connection with the Hughes
Transactions.
Financing and Insurance Operations
- ----------------------------------
Cash provided by operating activities during 1998 totaled $7.7 billion, an
increase from the $4.1 billion and $4.3 billion provided during the comparable
1997 and 1996 periods, respectively. The additional operating cash flow was
primarily the result of increased mortgage activity.
Cash used for investing activities during 1998 totaled $22.6 billion,
compared with $12.1 billion and $6.5 billion during the same periods in 1997 and
1996, respectively. Cash usage increased primarily as a result of lower net
finance receivable activity and a decrease in sales of retail receivables
proceeds.
Cash provided by financing activities during 1998 totaled $15.5 billion,
compared with $8.2 billion and $2.5 billion of cash provided by financing
activities during the comparable 1997 and 1996 periods, respectively. The change
is primarily the result of increases in short- and long-term debt and lower
dividends paid to GM.
Dividends
Dividends may be paid on common stocks only when, as and if declared by the
GM Board in its sole discretion. GM's policy is to distribute dividends on its
$1-2/3 par value common stock based on the outlook and indicated capital needs
of the business. In January 1999, the GM Board declared a quarterly cash
dividend of $0.50 per share on $1-2/3 par value common stock, payable March 10,
1999. The GM Board also declared quarterly dividends on the Series B, Series D,
and Series G Depositary Shares of $0.57, $0.495, and $0.57 per share,
respectively, payable May 1, 1999. With respect to Class H common stock, which
was recapitalized on December 17, 1997, the GM Board determined that it will not
pay any cash dividends at this time in order to allow the earnings of Hughes to
be retained for investment in its telecommunications and space businesses.
Health Care Expense and Other Postretirement Benefits
The cost of postretirement medical, dental, vision, and life insurance
benefits provided to retirees and eligible dependents are recognized in the
consolidated financial statements during the period in which employees provide
services to GM. Costs for medical, dental, vision, and life insurance benefits
provided to employees during active service are expensed as incurred
(pay-as-you-go). The components of postretirement benefits expense, the U.S.
health care cost, and cash expenditures for GM's U.S. operations are set forth
below (excluding cash expenditures for Hughes' and former Hughes' non-automotive
employees, but including GMAC).
GM is committed to reducing the burden of continuing health care cost
increases. During 1997, GM elected to pre-fund part of its other postretirement
benefits liability by creating a VEBA trust to which it contributed $3 billion
of its cash reserves. In 1998, GM contributed an additional $1.7 billion to and
paid $375 million in benefits from the VEBA trust. The VEBA assets had the
effect of reducing GM's postretirement benefits liability on the consolidated
balance sheet.
II-18
GENERAL MOTORS CORPORATION AND SUBSIDIARIES
Health Care Expense and Other Postretirement Benefits (concluded)
Year Ended December 31, 1998
-------------------------------------
Postretirement Health Pay-As-You-Go
Benefit Care Cost Cost*
-------------- --------- -------------
(Dollars in Millions)
GM U.S. operations health care
Postretirement medical, dental,
and vision $2,829 $2,829 $ -
Retired employees pay-as-you-go - - 2,012
Active employees pay-as-you-go - 1,717 1,717
----- ----- -----
Total health care 2,829 $4,546 $3,729
----- ===== =====
Life insurance 449
Other subsidiaries - health care
and life insurance 193
----
Total postretirement benefits
expense $3,471
======
- ------------------
* Pay-as-you-go amounts for 1997 were $1.9 billion for retirees, $1.7 billion
for active employees, and $3.6 billion in total.
GM has disclosed in its consolidated financial statements certain amounts
associated with estimated future postretirement benefits other than pensions and
classified such amounts as "accumulated postretirement benefit obligations,"
"liabilities," or "obligations." Notwithstanding the recording of such amounts
and the use of these terms, GM does not admit or otherwise acknowledge that such
amounts or existing postretirement benefit plans of GM (other than pensions)
represent legally enforceable liabilities of GM.
GM Card
GM sponsors a credit card program, entitled the GM Card program, which was
introduced in the U.S. in September 1992 and subsequently in Canada, Australia,
Brazil, Mexico, Chile and the United Kingdom. A cardholder's use of the card
generates entitlements to rebates that can be used in connection with the
cardholder's purchase or lease of a new GM vehicle.
As the sponsor of the GM Card program, GM does not provide consumer credit.
The program is used as a marketing tool to increase product sales. Independent
banks issue the GM Card and are responsible for evaluating, extending, and
funding credit to the cardholders, and are fully responsible for any credit card
losses with no recourse against GM.
In the U.S., GM Card rebates accumulate at a rate equal to 5% of all spending
for goods or services charged on the GM Card up to a maximum rebate amount of
$500 per year. The rebates, which expire in 7 years, may be applied over and
above all sales allowances in the market at the time of vehicle purchase or
lease. GM is solely responsible to cardholders for rebates. Provisions for GM
Card rebates are recorded as reductions in revenue at the time of vehicle sale.
GM has the right to prospectively modify the plan.
Rebates redeemed worldwide during 1998, 1997, and 1996 were $705 million,
$656 million, and $443 million, respectively. Cardholder rebates available
worldwide for future redemption when the cardholder purchases or leases a new GM
vehicle amounted to $3.7 billion and $3.5 billion (net of deferred program
income) at December 31, 1998 and 1997, respectively. GM anticipates that profits
from incremental sales resulting from the GM Card program, along with deferred
program income, will more than offset future rebate costs associated with the GM
Card.
II-19
GENERAL MOTORS CORPORATION AND SUBSIDIARIES
Deferred Income Taxes
At December 31, 1998, GM's consolidated balance sheet included a net deferred
tax asset of approximately $20.8 billion related to net future deductible
temporary differences (see Note 6 to the GM consolidated financial statements)
in the United States of which approximately $15.4 billion related to the
obligation for postretirement benefits other than pensions. Realization of the
net deferred tax asset is dependent upon profitable operations in the United
States and future reversals of existing taxable temporary differences. Although
realization is not assured, GM believes that it is more likely than not that
such benefits will be realized through the reduction of future taxable income.
Management has carefully considered various factors in assessing the probability
of realizing this deferred tax asset including:
. The operating results of GMNA over the most recent three year period and
overall financial forecasts of book and taxable income for the 1999-2003
period. Further improvements are expected by continuing efforts to
maintain GM's competitiveness, including actions relating to reducing
material costs through global sourcing and increasing efficiency through
lean manufacturing.
. Operating results of GMAC and Hughes which generated U.S. pre-tax
income of approximately $1.8 billion, $3.3 billion, and $3.1 billion in
1998, 1997, and 1996, respectively.
. The ability to utilize tax planning, such as capitalization of research
and experimentation costs for tax purposes, so that GM does not have, and
does not expect to generate in the near future, any significant U.S.
federal tax net operating loss carryforwards.
. The extended period of time over which the tax assets can be utilized.
Postretirement benefits become tax deductions over periods up to 50
years.
. The fact that GM has never lost deferred federal tax assets due to the
expiration of a U.S. net operating loss carryforward.
Dividends received from foreign operations for U.S. federal income tax
purposes totaled approximately $3.1 billion, $3.0 billion, and $1.2 billion in
1998, 1997, and 1996, respectively.
Pensions
At December 31, 1998, GM's total worldwide net unfunded pension position
increased to $6.3 billion ($1.2 billion for the U.S. automotive qualified
hourly/salary plans and $5.1 billion for all other plans worldwide) from $5.0
billion a year ago ($0.5 billion for the U.S. automotive qualified hourly/salary
plans and $4.5 billion for all other plans worldwide). The predominant factor
contributing to the increase in the unfunded position of the U.S. automotive
qualified hourly/salary plans was a 25 basis point decline in the discount rate
used to measure the pension obligation at the end of 1998 compared to 1997
(6.75% and 7.00%, respectively). During 1998 and 1997, GM contributed $1.1
billion and $1.5 billion in cash, respectively, to its U.S. hourly pension
plans.
On an economic basis, GM continues to maintain a fully-funded status for its
U.S. hourly and salaried pension plans as of December 31, 1998. The economic
basis of measuring the U.S. hourly and salaried pension liability differs from
the Statement of Financial Accounting Standards (SFAS) No. 87 basis, Employers'
Accounting for Pensions, required by GAAP, but GM believes it to be a better
measure of GM's ongoing economic exposure for pension obligations and as such
uses this as a measure to determine its funded status. The economic basis
discounts pension liabilities at the long-term asset earnings rate assumption
(currently 10.0%) rather than at a variable, year-end market rate as required by
SFAS No. 87 (currently 6.75%). In periods of low interest rates, as in the
current market environment, the SFAS No. 87 liability will generally exceed the
liability calculated on an economic basis, whereas in periods of high interest
rates the economic basis liability will generally exceed the SFAS No. 87
liability.
Environmental Matters
GM is subject to various laws relating to the protection of the environment
including laws regulating air emissions, water discharges, waste management, and
environmental cleanup. GM is also in various stages of investigation and
remediation for sites where contamination has been alleged.
The liability for worldwide environmental cleanup was $519 million and $610
million at December 31, 1998 and 1997, respectively. In future periods, new laws
or regulations, advances in technologies, additional information about the
ultimate remedy selected at new and existing sites, and GM's share of the cost
of such remedies could significantly change GM's estimates.
The process of estimating such liabilities is complex and dependent primarily
on the nature and extent of historical information and physical data relating to
a contaminated site, the complexity of the site, the uncertainty as to what
remedy and technology will be required, the outcome of discussions with
regulatory agencies and other potentially responsible parties (PRPs) at
multi-party sites, and the number and financial viability of other PRPs.
In 1998, 1997, and 1996, GM expensed $91 million, $88 million, and $94
million, respectively, for environmental investigation, remediation, and waste
management. In addition, worldwide capital expenditures, as discussed
previously, included $98 million, $115 million, and $122 million in 1998, 1997,
and 1996, respectively, for various environmental matters.
II-20
GENERAL MOTORS CORPORATION AND SUBSIDIARIES
Euro Conversion
On January 1, 1999, eleven of fifteen member countries of the European Union
established fixed conversion rates between their existing currencies and adopted
the euro as their new common currency. The euro trades on currency exchanges and
the legacy currencies remain legal tender in the participating countries for a
transition period until January 1, 2002. Beginning on January 1, 2002, euro
denominated bills and coins will be issued and legacy currencies will be
withdrawn from circulation.
GM has established plans to assess and address the impact to GM as a result
of the euro conversion. The introduction of the euro on January 1, 1999 has
increased the pace of price harmonization throughout Europe. GM has developed a
comprehensive program to identify, analyze and determine the best strategy to
address this price harmonization. GM is analyzing all aspects of its pricing
strategy to minimize any potential risk of this pricing harmonization.
In addition, the Corporation has reviewed and has made required modifications
to applicable information technology systems and contracts based on the new
currency.
GM believes the introduction of the euro does not have any material tax
consequences, and also believes it reduces its overall foreign exchange risk as
the number of currencies in which it transacts is now reduced.
GM believes that the euro conversion will not have a material adverse impact
on its financial position or results of operations.
Employment and Payrolls
Worldwide employment at December 31, (in thousands)
1998 1997 1996(1)
---- ---- ------
GMNA 226 237 245
GME 84 79 79
GMLAAM 24 27 23
GMAP 10 10 9
Delphi 198 210 211
GMAC 24 21 18
Hughes 15 14 12
Other 13 10 8
-- -- -
Total employees 594 608 605
=== === ===
Worldwide payrolls - continuing operations
(in billions) $26.5 $28.3 (1) $27.8
U.S. hourly payrolls (in billions) (2)(3) $12.5 $13.9 $13.8
Average labor cost per active hour worked
- U.S. hourly (2) $45.42 $44.86 $44.08
- -----------------------
(1) Amounts have been adjusted to reflect the changes to GM's organizational
structure resulting from the restructuring of former Hughes which occurred
in December 1997. As such, Delphi adjusted amounts include Delco and Hughes
adjusted amounts exclude Delco and Hughes Defense.
(2) Excludes EDS, Hughes' and former Hughes' non-automotive employees.
(3) Includes employees "at work" (excludes laid-off employees receiving
benefits).
New Accounting Standards
In the first quarter of 1998, the AICPA's Accounting Standards Executive
Committee issued Statement of Position (SOP) 98-1, Accounting for the Costs of
Computer Software Developed or Obtained for Internal Use. This SOP requires that
entities capitalize certain internal-use software cost once specific criteria
are met. Currently, GM generally expenses the costs of developing or obtaining
internal-use software as incurred. GM will adopt SOP 98-1 on January 1, 1999, as
required. GM expects that under the new SOP, approximately $300 million to $350
million in spending will be capitalized in 1999 that would have otherwise been
expensed.
In the second quarter of 1998, the Financial Accounting Standards Board
issued Statement of Financial Accounting Standards (SFAS) No. 133, Accounting
for Derivative Instruments and Hedging Activities. SFAS No. 133 requires an
entity to recognize all derivatives as either assets or liabilitiies in the
statement of financial position and measure those instruments at fair value.
Gains or losses resulting from changes in the values of those derivatives would
be accounted for depending on the use of the derivative and whether it qualifies
for hedge accounting. GM plans to adopt SFAS No. 133 by January 1, 2000, as
required. GM is currently assessing the impact of this Statement on GM's
consolidated financial statements.
II-21
GENERAL MOTORS CORPORATION AND SUBSIDIARIES
Forward-Looking Statements
Following are the principal important factors which may cause actual results
to differ materially from those expressed in forward-looking statements made by
the managements of GM, Hughes and Delphi:
. Changes in economic conditions, currency exchange rates, or political
stability in the major markets where the corporation procures material,
components, and supplies for the production of its principal products or
where its products are produced, distributed, or sold (i.e., North America,
Europe, Latin America and Asia-Pacific), including the effects of current
economic problems in Asia and political problems in the Far East.
. Shortages of fuel or interruptions in transportation systems, labor
strikes, work stoppages, or other interruptions to or difficulties in the
employment of labor in the major markets where the corporation purchases
material, components, and supplies for the production of its products or
where its products are produced, distributed or sold.
. Significant changes in the competitive environment in the major markets
where the corporation purchases material, components and supplies for the
production of its products or where its products are produced, distributed,
or sold.
. Changes in the laws, regulations, policies or other activities of
governments, agencies and similar organizations where such actions may
affect the production, licensing, distribution or sale of the corporation's
products, the cost thereof or applicable tax rates.
. The ability of the corporation to achieve reductions in cost and employment
levels, to realize production efficiencies, and to implement capital
expenditures, all at the levels and times planned by management.
. With respect to Hughes, additional risk factors include: the ability to
achieve subscriber growth in its Direct-To-Home businesses, the ability to
sustain technological competitiveness, the possible failure or delay of
planned satellite launches, access to capital and financial flexibility in
order to take advantage of new market opportunities, the ability to
complete strategic acquisition of businesses and assets, and the ability to
respond to competitive pressures and react quickly to other major changes
in the marketplace.
* * * * * *
II-22
GENERAL MOTORS CORPORATION AND SUBSIDIARIES
Item 7A. Quantitative and Qualitative Disclosures About Market Risk
GM is exposed to market risk from changes in foreign currency exchange rates,
interest rates and certain commodity and equity security prices. In order to
manage the risk arising from these exposures, GM enters into a variety of
foreign exchange, interest rate, and commodity forward contracts and options.
A discussion of GM's accounting policies for derivative instruments is
included in Note 1 to the GM consolidated financial statements and further
disclosure is provided in Notes 10, 11, and 12 to the GM consolidated financial
statements.
GM maintains risk management control systems to monitor foreign exchange,
interest rate, commodity and equity price risks, and related hedge positions.
Positions are monitored using a variety of analytical techniques including
market value, sensitivity analysis, and value-at-risk models. The following
analyses are based on sensitivity analysis tests which assume instantaneous,
parallel shifts in exchange rates, interest rate yield curves, and commodity and
equity prices. For options and instruments with non-linear returns, models
appropriate to the instrument are utilized to determine the impact of
sensitivity shifts.
Foreign Currency Exchange Rate Risk
GM has foreign currency exposures related to buying, selling, and financing
in currencies other than the local currencies in which it operates. More
specifically, GM is exposed to foreign currency risk related to uncertainty to
which future earnings or assets and liability values are exposed due to
operating cash flows and various financial instruments that are denominated in
foreign currencies. GM's most significant foreign currency exposures relate to
Canada, Mexico, Western European countries (primarily Germany, United Kingdom,
Spain, Italy, Belgium and France), Australia, Japan and Brazil. As of December
31, 1998 and 1997, the net fair value liability of financial instruments with
exposure to foreign currency risk was approximately $3.5 billion and $1.9
billion, respectively. The potential loss in fair value for such financial
instruments from a hypothetical 10% adverse change in quoted foreign currency
exchange rates would be approximately $161 million and $190 million for 1998 and
1997, respectively.
The model assumes a parallel shift in the foreign currency exchange rates.
Exchange rates rarely move in the same direction. The assumption that exchange
rates change in a parallel fashion may overstate the impact of changing exchange
rates on assets and liabilities denominated in a foreign currency.
Interest Rate Risk
GM is subject to market risk from exposure to changes in interest rates based
on its financing, investing, and cash management activities. GM enters into
various financial instrument transactions to maintain the desired level of
exposure to the risk of interest rate fluctuations and to minimize interest
expense. More specifically, General Motors Acceptance Corporation (GMAC) and its
affiliates have also entered into contracts to provide commercial and retail
financing, retain mortgage servicing rights, and to retain various assets
related to mortgage securitization. Certain exchange traded future and option
contracts, interest rate caps and floors, along with various investments, have
been entered into to reduce the interest rate risk related to these activities
and manage potential prepayment activity associated with mortgage servicing
rights. The GMAC Mortgage Group (GMACMG) manages prepayment risk associated with
its capitalized mortgage servicing rights with U.S. Treasury options and
futures. Since the derivative instruments do not have identical characteristics
to the underlying mortgage servicing rights, GM is exposed to basis risk. GMACMG
mitigates this risk through a historical review of value change in various
interest rate scenarios when establishing and maintaining its hedge program. As
of December 31, 1998 and 1997, the net fair value liability of all financial
instruments held for purposes other than trading with exposure to interest rate
risk was approximately $15.9 billion and $3.7 billion, respectively. The
potential decrease in fair value resulting from a hypothetical 10% shift in
interest rates would be approximately $90 million and $214 million for 1998 and
1997, respectively. The net fair value asset of all financial instruments held
for trading purposes with exposure to interest rate risk was approximately $3.2
billion and $2.1 billion for 1998 and 1997, respectively. The potential loss in
fair value resulting from a hypothetical 10% shift in interest rates would be
approximately $84 million and $43 million for 1998 and 1997, respectively.
The SEC disclosures on market risk require that all financial instruments, as
defined by Statement of Financial Accounting Standards (SFAS) No. 107,
Disclosures about Fair Value of Financial Instruments, should be included in the
quantitative disclosure calculation. Operating leases are not required to be
disclosed by SFAS No. 107, and have not been presented as part of the
sensitivity analysis. This is a significant limitation to the analysis
presented. While the sensitivity analysis will show a fair market value change
for the debt which funds GM's operating lease portfolio, a corresponding change
for GM's operating lease portfolio, which had a book value of $37.1 billion and
$33.7 billion as of December 31, 1998 and 1997, respectively, was not considered
by the model. As a result, the overall impact to the fair market value of
financial instruments from a hypothetical change in interest rates may be
overstated.
II-23
GENERAL MOTORS CORPORATION AND SUBSIDIARIES
Interest Rate Risk (concluded)
There are certain shortcomings inherent to the sensitivity analyses
presented. The model assumes interest rate changes are instantaneous parallel
shifts in the yield curve. In reality, changes are rarely instantaneous.
Although certain assets and liabilities may have similar maturities or periods
to repricing, they may not react correspondingly to changes in market interest
rates. Also, the interest rates on certain types of assets and liabilities may
fluctuate with changes in market interest rates, while interest rates on other
types of assets may lag behind changes in market rates. Finance receivables are
less susceptible to prepayments when interest rates change, while prepayments on
many mortgage related instruments are directly affected by a change in interest
rates. As such, GM's model does not address prepayment risk for automotive
related finance receivables, but does consider prepayment risk for mortgage
related instruments that are highly sensitive to prepayment risk. However, in
the event of a change in interest rates, actual loan prepayments may deviate
significantly from assumptions used in the model. Further, certain assets, such
as adjustable rate loans, have features, such as annual and lifetime caps, that
restrict changing the interest rates both on a short-term basis and over the
life of the asset. Finally, the ability of certain borrowers to make scheduled
payments on their adjustable rate loans may decrease in the event of an interest
rate increase.
Commodity Price Risk
GM enters into commodity forward and option contracts. Such contracts are
executed to offset GM's exposure to the potential change in prices mainly for
various non-ferrous metals used in the manufacturing of automotive components.
The net fair value liability of such contracts, excluding the underlying
exposures, as of December 31, 1998 and 1997 was approximately $200 million and
$42 million, respectively. The potential change in the fair value of commodity
forward and option contracts, assuming a 10% change in the underlying commodity
price, would be approximately $203 million and $111 million at December 31, 1998
and 1997, respectively. This amount excludes the offsetting impact of the price
risk inherent in the physical purchase of the underlying commodities.
Equity Price Risk
GM holds investments in various available-for-sale equity securities which
are subject to price risk. The fair value of such investments, as of December
31, 1998 and 1997 was approximately $1.2 billion and $899 million, respectively.
The potential change in the fair value of these investments, assuming a 10%
change in prices would be approximately $121 million and $90 million for 1998
and 1997, respectively.
Forward-Looking Statements
The above discussion and the estimated amounts generated from the sensitivity
analyses referred to above include forward-looking statements of market risk
which assume for analytical purposes that certain adverse market conditions may
occur. Actual future market conditions may differ materially from such
assumptions because the amounts noted previously are the result of analyses used
for the purpose of assessing possible risks and the mitigation thereof.
Accordingly, the forward-looking statements should not be considered projections
by GM of future events or losses.
* * * * * *
II-24
RESPONSIBILITIES FOR CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
The following consolidated financial statements of General Motors Corporation
and subsidiaries were prepared by management, which is responsible for their
integrity and objectivity. The statements have been prepared in conformity with
generally accepted accounting principles and, as such, include amounts based on
judgments of management.
Management is further responsible for maintaining internal control designed
to provide reasonable assurance that the books and records reflect the
transactions of the companies and that established policies and procedures are
carefully followed. From a stockholder's point of view, perhaps the most
important feature in internal control is that it is continually reviewed for
effectiveness and is augmented by written policies and guidelines, the careful
selection and training of qualified personnel, and a strong program of internal
audit.
Deloitte & Touche LLP, an independent auditing firm, is engaged to audit the
consolidated financial statements of General Motors Corporation and subsidiaries
and issue reports thereon. The audit is conducted in accordance with generally
accepted auditing standards that comprehend the consideration of internal
control and tests of transactions to the extent necessary to form an independent
opinion on the financial statements prepared by management. The Independent
Auditors' Report appears on the next page.
The Board of Directors, through the Audit Committee (composed entirely of
non-employee Directors), is responsible for assuring that management fulfills
its responsibilities in the preparation of the consolidated financial
statements. The Audit Committee selects the independent auditors annually in
advance of the Annual Meeting of Stockholders and submits the selection for
ratification at the Meeting. In addition, the Audit Committee reviews the scope
of the audits and the accounting principles being applied in financial
reporting. The independent auditors, representatives of management, and the
internal auditors meet regularly (separately and jointly) with the Audit
Committee to review the activities of each, to ensure that each is properly
discharging its responsibilities, and to assess the effectiveness of internal
control. It is management's conclusion that internal control at December 31,
1998 provides reasonable assurance that the books and records reflect the
transactions of the companies and that established policies and procedures are
complied with. To ensure complete independence, Deloitte & Touche LLP has full
and free access to meet with the Audit Committee, without management
representatives present, to discuss the results of the audit, the adequacy of
internal control, and the quality of financial reporting.
/s/John F. Smith, Jr. /s/J. Michael Losh
- --------------------- ------------------
John F. Smith, Jr. J. Michael Losh
Chairman and Chief Executive Officer Executive Vice President and
Chief Financial Officer
II-25
Independent Auditors' Report
General Motors Corporation, its Directors, and Stockholders:
We have audited the Consolidated Balance Sheets of General Motors Corporation
and subsidiaries as of December 31, 1998 and 1997, and the related Consolidated
Statements of Income, Cash Flows, and Stockholders' Equity for each of the three
years in the period ended December 31, 1998. Our audits also included the
financial statement schedule listed at Item 14. These financial statements and
the financial statement schedule are the responsibility of the Corporation's
management. Our responsibility is to express an opinion on these financial
statements and the financial statement schedule based on our audits.
We conducted our audits in accordance with generally accepted auditing
standards. Those standards require that we plan and perform the audit to obtain
reasonable assurance about whether the financial statements are free of material
misstatement. An audit includes examining, on a test basis, evidence supporting
the amounts and disclosures in the financial statements. An audit also includes
assessing the accounting principles used and significant estimates made by
management, as well as evaluating the overall financial statement presentation.
We believe that our audits provide a reasonable basis for our opinion.
In our opinion, such financial statements present fairly, in all material
respects, the financial position of General Motors Corporation and subsidiaries
at December 31, 1998 and 1997, and the results of their operations and their
cash flows for each of the three years in the period ended December 31, 1998 in
conformity with generally accepted accounting principles. Also, in our opinion,
such financial statement schedule, when considered in relation to the basic
consolidated financial statements taken as a whole, presents fairly, in all
material respects, the information set forth therein.
/s/DELOITTE & TOUCHE LLP
- ------------------------
DELOITTE & TOUCHE LLP
Detroit, Michigan
January 20, 1999
(March 2, 1999 as to Note 23)
II-26
ITEM 8
CONSOLIDATED STATEMENTS OF INCOME
Years Ended December 31,
-------------------------------
1998 1997 1996
---- ---- ----
(Dollars in Millions)
AUTOMOTIVE, ELECTRONICS AND OTHER OPERATIONS
Manufactured products sales
and revenues (Note 1) $140,433 $153,683 $145,341
Other income (Note 21) 2,598 8,084 2,849
----- ----- -----
Total net sales and revenues 143,031 161,767 148,190
------- ------- -------
Cost of sales and other operating
charges, exclusive of items listed
below (Note 2 117,973 130,028 123,195
Selling, general and administrative
expenses 13,311 13,386 11,999
Depreciation and amortization expense
(Notes 1 and 2) 7,281 11,803 7,145
----- ------ -----
Total operating costs and expenses 138,565 155,217 142,339
------- ------- -------
Other expenses (Notes 2 and 21) 782 241 792
Interest expense (Note 10) 1,050 863 771
Net expense (income) from transactions
with Financing and
Insurance Operations (Note 1) 82 (101) (125)
-- ---- ----
Income from continuing operations
before income taxes
and minority interests 2,552 5,547 4,413
Income tax expense (Note 6) 845 155 885
Minority interests 11 66 56
(Losses) earnings of nonconsolidated
associates (184) (78) 128
---- --- ---
Income from continuing operations 1,534 5,380 3,712
Income from discontinued operations
(Note 1) - - 10
----- ----- -----
Net income - Automotive, Electronics
and Other Operations $1,534 $5,380 $3,722
====== ====== ======
Years Ended December 31,
-------------------------------
1998 1997 1996
---- ---- ----
(Dollars in Millions)
FINANCING AND INSURANCE OPERATIONS
Financing revenues (Note 1) $13,585 $12,762 $12,674
Insurance, mortgage and other income
(Note 21) 4,699 3,723 3,021
----- ----- -----
Total revenues and other income 18,284 16,485 15,695
------ ------ ------
Interest expense (Note 10) 5,843 5,250 4,924
Depreciation and amortization expense
(Note 1) 4,920 4,813 4,695
Operating and other expenses 4,019 2,806 2,581
Provisions for financing losses
(Notes 1 and 21) 463 523 669
Insurance losses and loss adjustment
expenses (Note 21) 1,061 747 622
----- --- ---
Total costs and expenses 16,306 14,139 13,491
------ ------ ------
Net (income) expense from transaction
with Automotive, Electronics and
Other Operations (Note 1) (82) 101 125
--- --- ---
Income before income taxes 2,060 2,245 2,079
Income tax expense (Note 6) 618 914 838
Minority interests (20) (13) -
--- --- -----
Net income - Financing and
Insurance Operations $1,422 $1,318 $1,241
====== ====== ======
The above supplemental consolidating information is explained in Note 1, "Nature
of Operations".
Reference should be made to the notes to consolidated financial statements.
II-27
CONSOLIDATED STATEMENTS OF INCOME - Concluded
Years Ended December 31,
-------------------------------
1998 1997 1996
---- ---- ----
(Dollars in Millions Except Per Share Amounts)
GENERAL MOTORS CORPORATION AND SUBSIDIARIES
Manufactured products sales and
revenues (Note 1) $140,433 $153,683 $145,341
Financing revenues (Note 1) 13,585 12,762 12,674
Other income (Note 21) 7,297 11,807 5,870
----- ------ -----
Total net sales and revenues 161,315 178,252 163,885
------- ------- -------
Cost of sales and other operating
charges, exclusive of items listed
below (Note 2) 117,973 130,028 123,195
Selling, general and administrative
expenses 17,330 16,192 14,580
Depreciation and amortization expense
(Notes 1 and 2) 12,201 16,616 11,840
Interest expense (Note 10) 6,893 6,113 5,695
Other expenses (Notes 2 and 21) 2,306 1,511 2,083
----- ----- -----
Total costs and expenses 156,703 170,460 157,393
------- ------- -------
Income from continuing operations
before income taxes
and minority interests 4,612 7,792 6,492
Income tax expense (Note 6) 1,463 1,069 1,723
Minority interests (9) 53 56
(Losses) earnings of nonconsolidated
associates (184) (78) 128
---- --- ---
Income from continuing operations $2,956 $6,698 $4,953
Income from discontinued operations
(Note 1) - - 10
----- ----- -----
Net income $2,956 $6,698 $4,963
------ ------ ------
Premium on exchange of preference stocks
(Note 16) - 26 -
Dividends on preference stocks (Note 17) 63 72 81
-- -- --
Earnings on common stocks $2,893 $6,600 $4,882
====== ====== ======
Basic earnings per share attributable
to common stocks (Note 18)
$1-2/3 par value common stock
Continuing operations $4.26 $8.70 $6.07
Discontinued operations - - (0.01)
---- ---- ----
Earnings per share attributable to
$1-2/3 par value $4.26 $8.70 $6.06
===== ===== =====
Income from discontinued operations
attributable to Class E $ - $ - $0.04
===== ===== =====
Earnings per share attributable to
Class H (prior to its
recapitalization on
December 17, 1997) (Note 1) $ - $3.17 $2.88
===== ===== =====
Earnings per share attributable to
Class H (subsequent
to its recapitalization on
December 17, 1997) (Note 1) $0.68 $0.02 $ -
===== ===== =====
Diluted earnings per share attributable
to common stocks (Note 18)
$1-2/3 par value common stock
Continuing operations $4.18 $8.62 $6.03
===== ===== =====
Discontinued operations - - (0.01)
----- ----- -----
Earnings per share attributable
to $1-2/3 par value $4.18 $8.62 $6.02
===== ===== =====
Income from discontinued operations
attributable to Class E $ - $ - $0.04
===== ===== =====
Earnings per share attributable to
Class H (prior to its
recapitalization on
December 17, 1997) (Note 1) $ - $3.17 $2.88
===== ===== =====
Earnings per share attributable to
Class H (subsequent
to its recapitalization on
December 17, 1997) (Note 1) $0.68 $0.02 $ -
===== ===== =====
Reference should be made to the notes to consolidated financial statements.
II-28
CONSOLIDATED BALANCE SHEETS
December 31,
-----------------
AUTOMOTIVE, ELECTRONICS AND OTHER OPERATIONS 1998 1997
- -------------------------------------------- ---- ----
(Dollars in Millions)
ASSETS
Cash and cash equivalents $10,723 $10,685
Marketable securities 407 3,826
--- -----
Total cash and marketable securities (Notes 1 and 3) 11,130 14,511
Accounts and notes receivable (less allowances) 5,599 5,440
Inventories (less allowances) (Note 5) 12,207 12,102
Equipment on operating leases (less accumulated
depreciation) (Note 7) 4,954 4,677
Deferred income taxes and other current assets (Note 6) 10,473 6,278
Net receivable from Financing and Insurance Operations
(Note 1) - 319
------ ------
Total current assets 44,363 43,327
Equity in net assets of nonconsolidated associates 1,317 1,407
Property - net (Note 8) 37,187 33,914
Intangible assets - net (Notes 1 and 9) 10,222 10,752
Deferred income taxes (Note 6) 17,780 20,721
Other assets 14,769 13,547
------ ------
Total Automotive, Electronics and Other
Operations assets $125,638 $123,668
======== ========
LIABILITIES AND GM INVESTMENT
Accounts payable (principally trade) $13,479 $12,461
Loans payable (Note 10) 1,526 656
Accrued expenses (Note 14) 31,985 33,254
Net payable to Financing and Insurance Operations
(Note 1) 816 -
------ ------
Total current liabilities 47,806 46,371
Long-term debt (Note 10) 7,217 5,695
Postretirement benefits other than pensions (Note 13) 38,076 38,388
Pensions (Note 13) 6,590 4,271
Other liabilities and deferred income taxes (Note 14) 20,267 19,294
------ ------
Total Automotive, Electronics and Other
Operations liabilities 119,956 114,019
Minority interests 615 695
GM investment in Automotive, Electronics and
Other Operations 5,067 8,954
----- -----
Total Automotive, Electronics and Other Operations
liabilities and GM investment $125,638 $123,668
======== ========
December 31,
-------------------
FINANCING AND INSURANCE OPERATIONS 1998 1997
- ---------------------------------- ---- ----
(Dollars in Millions)
ASSETS
Cash and cash equivalents (Note 1) $146 $577
Investments in securities (Note 3) 8,748 7,896
Finance receivables - net (Note 4) 70,436 58,289
Investment in leases and other receivables (Note 7) 32,798 28,523
Other assets 18,807 12,799
Net receivable from Automotive, Electronics
and Other Operations (Note 1) 816 -
------- -------
Total Financing and Insurance Operations assets $131,751 $108,084
======== ========
LIABILITIES AND GM INVESTMENT
Accounts payable $6,492 $3,321
Debt (Note 10) 105,409 86,676
Deferred income taxes and other liabilities (Note 14) 9,661 8,962
Net payable to Automotive, Electronics and
Other Operations (Note 1) - 319
------- ------
Total Financing and Insurance Operations liabilities 121,562 99,278
Minority interests 52 32
GM investment in Financing and Insurance Operations 10,137 8,774
------ -----
Total Financing and Insurance Operations
liabilities and GM investment $131,751 $108,084
======== ========
The above supplemental consolidating information is explained in Note 1, "Nature
of Operations".
Reference should be made to the notes to consolidated financial statements.
II-29
CONSOLIDATED BALANCE SHEETS - Concluded
December 31,
-----------------
GENERAL MOTORS CORPORATION AND SUBSIDIARIES 1998 1997
- ------------------------------------------- ---- ----
(Dollars in Millions)
ASSETS
Automotive, Electronics and Other Operations
Cash and cash equivalents $10,723 $10,685
Marketable securities 407 3,826
--- -----
Total cash and marketable securities (Notes 1 and 3) 11,130 14,511
Accounts and notes receivable (less allowances) 5,599 5,440
Inventories (less allowances) (Note 5) 12,207 12,102
Equipment on operating leases (less accumulated
depreciation) (Note 7) 4,954 4,677
Deferred income taxes and other current assets (Note 6) 10,473 6,278
Net receivable from Financing and Insurance
Operations (Note 1) - 319
------ ------
Total current assets 44,363 43,327
Equity in net assets of nonconsolidated associates 1,317 1,407
Property - net (Note 8) 37,187 33,914
Intangible assets - net (Notes 1 and 9) 10,222 10,752
Deferred income taxes (Note 6) 17,780 20,721
Other assets 14,769 13,547
------ ------
Total Automotive, Electronics and Other
Operations assets 125,638 123,668
Financing and Insurance Operations
Cash and cash equivalents (Note 1) 146 577
Investments in securities (Note 3) 8,748 7,896
Finance receivables - net (Note 4) 70,436 58,289
Investment in leases and other receivables (Note 7) 32,798 28,523
Other assets 18,807 12,799
Net receivable from Automotive, Electronics and
Other Operations (Note 1) 816 -
------- -------
Total Financing and Insurance Operations assets 131,751 108,084
------- -------
Total assets $257,389 $231,752
======== ========
LIABILITIES AND STOCKHOLDERS' EQUITY
Automotive, Electronics and Other Operations
Accounts payable (principally trade) $13,479 $12,461
Loans payable (Note 10) 1,526 656
Accrued expenses (Note 14) 31,985 33,254
Net payable to Financing and Insurance Operations
(Note 1) 816 -
------ ------
Total current liabilities 47,806 46,371
Long-term debt (Note 10) 7,217 5,695
Postretirement benefits other than pensions (Note 13) 38,076 38,388
Pensions (Note 13) 6,590 4,271
Other liabilities and deferred income taxes (Note 14) 20,267 19,294
------ ------
Total Automotive, Electronics and Other
Operations liabilities 119,956 114,019
Financing and Insurance Operations
Accounts payable 6,492 3,321
Debt (Note 10) 105,409 86,676
Deferred income taxes and other liabilities (Note 14) 9,661 8,962
Net payable to Automotive, Electronics and
Other Operations (Note 1) - 319
------- ------
Total Financing and Insurance Operations liabilities 121,562 99,278
Minority interests 667 727
General Motors - obligated mandatorily redeemable
preferred securities of subsidiary
trusts holding solely junior subordinated
debentures of General Motors (Note 16)
Series D 79 79
Series G 141 143
Stockholders' equity (Notes 17 and 19)
Preference stocks 1 1
$1-2/3 par value common stock (issued, 655,008,344
and 693,456,394 shares) 1,092 1,156
Class H common stock (issued, 106,159,776 and
103,885,803 shares) 11 10
Capital surplus (principally additional paid-in capital) 12,661 15,369
Retained earnings 6,984 5,416
------ ------
Subtotal 20,749 21,952
Accumulated foreign currency translation adjustments (1,157) (888)
Net unrealized gains on securities 481 504
Minimum pension liability adjustment (5,089) (4,062)
------ ------
Accumulated other comprehensive loss (5,765) (4,446)
------ ------
Total stockholders' equity 14,984 17,506
------- -------
Total liabilities and stockholders' equity $257,389 $231,752
======== ========
Reference should be made to the notes to consolidated financial statements.
II-30
CONSOLIDATED STATEMENTS OF CASH FLOWS
For The Years Ended December 31,
------------------------------------------------------------------------
1998 1997 1996
---------------------- ---------------------- ------------ ---------
Automotive, Financing Automotive, Financing Automotive, Financing
Electronics and Electronics and Electronics and
and Other Insurance and Other Insurance and Other Insurance
--------- --------- ---------- --------- ---------- ---------
(Dollars in Millions)
Cash flows from operating activities
Income from continuing operations $1,534 $1,422 $5,381 $1,317 $3,712 $1,241
Adjustments to reconcile income
from continuing operations to
net cash provided by operating
activities
Depreciation and amortization
expenses 7,281 4,920 11,803 4,813 7,145 4,695
Gain on Hughes Defense
spin-off (Note 1) - - (4,269) - - -
Postretirement benefits other
than pensions, net of payments
and VEBA contributions (182) 31 (1,451) 26 1,549 26
Pension expense, net of
contributions 284 - 240 - 801 -
Originations and purchases of
mortgage loans - (54,433) - (30,878) - (19,455)
Proceeds on sales of mortgage loans - 51,582 - 28,543 - 18,157
Originations and purchases of
mortgage securities - (2,237) - (2,516) - (970)
Proceeds on sales of
mortgages securities - 849 - 1,449 - 758
Change in other investments and
miscellaneous assets 392 908 (1,413) 600 374 (777)
Change in other operating assets
and liabilities (Note 1) 304 3,610 1,850 467 (306) (237)
Other (264) 1,066 684 264 1,256 850
----- ----- ------ ----- ------ -----
Net cash provided by operating
activities 9,349 7,718 12,825 4,085 14,531 4,288
----- ----- ------ ----- ------ -----
Cash flows from investing activities
Expenditures for property (9,339) (279) (9,801) (238) (9,606) (121)
Investments in other marketable
securities - acquisitions (13,705) (21,152) (13,167) (17,730) (14,340) (13,091)
Investments in other marketable
securities - liquidations 16,973 21,688 12,984 16,295 11,891 13,075
Mortgage servicing rights
- acquisitions - (1,862) - (479) - (409)
Mortgage servicing rights
- liquidations - 80 - 23 - 99
Finance receivables - acquisitions - (155,613) - (163,614) - (155,477)
Finance receivables - liquidations - 114,662 - 129,615 - 120,323
Proceeds from sales of finance
receivables - 27,681 - 31,191 - 36,657
Operating leases - acquisitions (6,397 (17,128) (5,680 (15,393) (4,089) (14,405)
Operating leases - liquidations 5,609 9,777 3,711 8,476 3,819 6,405
Proceeds from borrowings of
Hughes Defense prior to the
Hughes Defense spin-off (Note 1) - - 4,006 - - -
Investments in companies,
net of cash acquired (1,172 (173) (1,874) (422) (167) -
Special inter-company payment
from EDS (Note 1) - - - - 500 -
Net investing activity with
Financing and Insurance Operations 338 - 750 - 1,200 -
Other (951) (242) 473 211 850 433
----- ----- ------ ----- ------ -----
Net cash used in investing
activities (8,644) (22,561) (8,598) (12,065) (9,942) (6,511)
------ ------- ------ ------- ------ ------
Cash flows from financing activities
Net increase (decrease) in
loans payable 521 6,162 (557) 5,626 (974) 1,636
Increase in long-term debt 2,993 21,098 384 14,587 1,924 14,009
Decrease in long-term debt (1,486) (11,377) (1,143) (11,311) (871) (11,939)
Net financing activity with
Automotive, Electronics
and Other Operations - (338) - (750) - (1,200)
Repurchases of common and
preference stocks (3,089) - (4,365) - (251) -
Proceeds from issuing common stocks 343 - 614 - 480 -
Cash dividends paid to stockholders (1,388) - (1,620) - (1,530) -
----- ------ ----- ----- ----- -----
Net cash (used in) provided by
financing activities (2,106) 15,545 (6,687) 8,152 (1,222) 2,506
------ ------ ------ ----- ------ -----
Effect of exchange rate changes
on cash and cash equivalents 304 2 (513) - (185) -
Net transactions with Automotive/
Financing Operations 1,135 (1,135) 338 (338) 989 (989)
----- ------ --- ---- --- ----
Net cash provided by (used in)
continuing operations 38 (431) (2,635) (166) 4,171 (706)
Net cash provided by discontinued
operations - - - - 103 -
----- ---- ------ ---- ----- ----
Net increase (decrease) in cash
and cash equivalents 38 (431) (2,635) (166) 4,274 (706)
Cash and cash equivalents at
beginning of the year 10,685 577 13,320 743 9,046 1,449
------ --- ------ --- ----- -----
Cash and cash equivalents at
end of the year $10,723 $146 $10,685 $577 $13,320 $743
======= ==== ======= ==== ======= ====
The above supplemental consolidating information is explained in Note 1, "Nature
of Operations".
Reference should be made to the notes to consolidated financial statements.
II-31
CONSOLIDATED STATEMENTS OF CASH FLOWS - Concluded
For The Years Ended December 31,
-------------------------------------
1998 1997 1996
---- ---- ----
(Dollars in Millions)
GENERAL MOTORS CORPORATION AND SUBSIDIARIES
Cash flows from operating activities
Income from continuing operations $2,956 $6,698 $4,953
Adjustments to reconcile income from
continuing operations to net cash
provided by operating activities
Depreciation and amortization
expenses 12,201 16,616 11,840
Gain on Hughes Defense spin-off
(Note 1) - (4,269) -
Postretirement benefits other
than pensions, net of payments
and VEBA contributions (151) (1,425) 1,575
Pension expense, net of
contributions 284 240 801
Originations and purchases of
mortgage loans (54,433) (30,878) (19,455)
Proceeds on sales of mortgage
loans 51,582 28,543 18,157
Originations and purchases of
mortgage securities (2,237) (2,516) (970)
Proceeds on sales of mortgage
securities 849 1,449 758
Change in other investments
and miscellaneous assets 1,300 (813) (403)
Change in other operating assets
and liabilities (Note 1) 3,914 2,317 (543)
Other 802 948 2,106
------ ------ ------
Net cash provided by operating
activities 17,067 16,910 18,819
------ ------ ------
Cash flows from investing activities
Expenditures for property (9,618) (10,039) (9,727)
Investments in other marketable
securities - acquisitions (34,857) (30,897) (27,431)
Investments in other marketable
securities - liquidations 38,661 29,279 24,966
Mortgage servicing rights -
acquisitions (1,862) (479) (409)
Mortgage servicing rights -
liquidations 80 23 99
Finance receivables - acquisitions (155,613) (163,614) (155,477)
Finance receivables - liquidations 114,662 129,615 120,323
Proceeds from sales of finance
receivables 27,681 31,191 36,657
Operating leases - acquisitions (23,525) (21,073) (18,494)
Operating leases - liquidations 15,386 12,187 10,224
Proceeds from borrowings of Hughes
Defense prior to the Hughes
Defense spin-off (Note 1) - 4,006 -
Investments in companies, net of
cash acquired (1,345) (2,296) (167)
Special inter-company payment
from EDS (Note 1) - - 500
Other (1,193) 684 1,283
------ --- -----
Net cash used in investing
activities (31,543) (21,413) (17,653)
------- ------- -------
Cash flows from financing activities
Net increase in loans payable 6,683 5,069 662
Increase in long-term debt 24,091 14,971 15,933
Decrease in long-term debt (12,863) (12,454) (12,810)
Repurchases of common and
preference stocks (3,089) (4,365) (251)
Proceeds from issuing common stocks 343 614 480
Cash dividends paid to stockholders (1,388) (1,620) (1,530)
------ ------ ------
Net cash provided by financing
activities 13,777 2,215 2,484
------ ----- -----
Effect of exchange rate changes
on cash and cash equivalents 306 (513) (185)
------ ------ ------
Net cash (used in) provided by
continuing operations (393) (2,801) 3,465
Net cash provided by discontinued
operations - - 103
------ ------ ------
Net (decrease) increase in cash
and cash equivalents (393) (2,801) 3,568
Cash and cash equivalents at
beginning of the year 11,262 14,063 10,495
------ ------ ------
Cash and cash equivalents at
end of the year $10,869 $11,262 $14,063
======= ======= =======
Reference should be made to the notes to consolidated financial statements.
II-32
GENERAL MOTORS CORPORATION AND SUBSIDIARIES
CONSOLIDATED STATEMENTS OF STOCKHOLDERS' EQUITY
FOR THE YEARS ENDED DECEMBER 31, 1998, 1997, AND 1996
Accumulated
Total Compre- Other Total
Capital Capital hensive Retained Comprehensive Stockholders'
Stock Surplus Income Earnings Income (Loss) Equity
----- ------- ------ -------- ------------ ------
Balance at January 1, 1996 $1,310 $18,871 $7,185 $(4,020) $23,346
Shares reacquired (8) (243) - - (251)
Shares issued 14 519 - - 533
Series C conversion 5 (7) - - (2)
EDS split-off (49) 49 (4,481) - (4,481)
Comprehensive income:
Net income - - $4,963 4,963 - 4,963
-----
Other comprehensive income (loss):
Foreign currency translation adjustments - - (336) - - -
Unrealized losses on securities - - (70) - - -
Minimum pension liability adjustment - - 1,246 - - -
-----
Other comprehensive income - - 840 - 840 840
-----
Comprehensive income - - $5,803 - - -
=====
Cash dividends - - (1,530) - (1,530)
----- ------ ----- ----- -----
Balance at December 31, 1996 1,272 19,189 6,137 (3,180) 23,418
Shares reacquired (122) (4,243) - - (4,365)
Shares issued 17 619 - - 636
Preference stock exchange - (196) (26) - (222)
Hughes Defense spin-off - - (5,773) - (5,773)
Comprehensive income:
Net income - - $6,698 6,698 - 6,698
-----
Other comprehensive income (loss):
Foreign currency translation adjustments - - (775) - - -
Unrealized gains on securities - - 81 - - -
Minimum pension liability adjustment - - (572) - - -
-----
Other comprehensive loss - - (1,266) - (1,266) (1,266)
-----
Comprehensive income - - $5,432 - - -
=====
Cash dividends - - (1,620) - (1,620)
----- ------ ----- ----- ------
Balance at December 31, 1997 1,167 15,369 5,416 (4,446) 17,506
Shares reacquired (75) (3,105) - - (3,180)
Shares issued 12 397 - - 409
Comprehensive income:
Net income - - $2,956 2,956 2,956
-----
Other comprehensive income (loss):
Foreign currency translation adjustments - - (269) - - -
Unrealized losses on securities - - (23) - - -
Minimum pension liability adjustment - - (1,027) - - -
-----
Other comprehensive loss - - (1,319) - (1,319) (1,319)
-----
Comprehensive income - - $1,637 - - -
=====
Cash dividends - - (1,388) - (1,388)
----- ------ ----- ----- ------
Balance at December 31, 1998 $1,104 $12,661 $6,984 $(5,765) $14,984
====== ======= ====== ======= =======
Reference should be made to the notes to consolidated financial statements.
II-33
GENERAL MOTORS CORPORATION AND SUBSIDIARIES
NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
NOTE 1. Significant Accounting Policies
Principles of Consolidation
The consolidated financial statements include the accounts of General
Motors Corporation (hereinafter referred to as the Corporation) and domestic and
foreign subsidiaries that are more than 50% owned, principally General Motors
Acceptance Corporation and Subsidiaries (GMAC) and Hughes Electronics
Corporation and Subsidiaries, prior to the December 17, 1997 restructuring of
the company (hereinafter referred to as "former Hughes") and subsequent to the
December 17, 1997 restructuring of the company (hereinafter referred to as
"Hughes") (see "Hughes Transactions" below) (collectively referred to as
"General Motors or GM"). General Motors' share of earnings or losses of
associates, in which at least 20% of the voting securities is owned, is included
in the consolidated operating results using the equity method of accounting. GM
encourages reference to the Delphi Automotive Systems Corporation (Delphi) and
the GMAC Annual Reports on Form 10-K for the period ended December 31, 1998,
both to be filed with the Securities and Exchange Commission, and the Hughes
consolidated financial statements included as Exhibit 99 to the GM Annual Report
on Form 10-K for the period ended December 31, 1998.
Certain amounts for 1997 and 1996 have been reclassified to conform with the
1998 classifications.
Nature of Operations
GM presents separate supplemental consolidating financial information for the
following businesses: (1) Automotive, Electronics and Other Operations which
consists of the design, manufacturing and marketing of cars, trucks, locomotives
and heavy duty transmissions and related parts and accessories, as well as the
operations of Hughes; and (2) Financing and Insurance Operations which consists
primarily of GMAC, which provides a broad range of financial services, including
consumer vehicle financing, full-service leasing and fleet leasing, dealer
financing, car and truck extended service contracts, residential and commercial
mortgage services, and vehicle and homeowners insurance.
Transactions between businesses have been eliminated in the Corporation's
consolidated statements of income. Automotive, Electronics and Other Operations'
net expense (income) from transactions with Financing and Insurance Operations
was as follows (in millions):
Years Ended December 31,
------------------------
1998 1997 1996
---- ---- ----
Interest $140 $89 $71
Service fees 58 34 27
Insurance - net (24) (127) (138)
Other (92) (97) (85)
--- --- ---
Net expense (income) $82 $(101) $(125)
=== ===== =====
Use of Estimates in the Preparation of the Financial Statements
The preparation of financial statements in conformity with generally accepted
accounting principles requires management to make estimates and assumptions that
affect amounts reported therein. Due to the inherent uncertainty involved in
making estimates, actual results reported in future periods may be based upon
amounts that differ from those estimates.
Revenue Recognition
Sales are generally recorded when products are shipped or when services are
rendered to independent dealers or other third parties. Provisions for normal
dealer sales incentives, returns and allowances, and GM Card rebates are made at
the time of vehicle sales. Costs related to special sales incentive programs are
recognized as reductions to sales when determinable.
Financing revenue is recorded over the terms of the receivables using the
interest method. Certain loan origination costs are deferred and amortized to
financing revenue over the lives of the related loans using the interest method.
Income from operating lease assets is recognized on a straight-line basis
over the scheduled lease term. Certain operating lease origination costs are
deferred and amortized to financing revenue over the lives of the related
operating leases using the straight-line method.
Insurance premiums are earned on a basis related to coverage provided over
the terms of the policies. Commission, premium taxes, and other costs incurred
in acquiring new business are deferred and amortized over the terms of the
related policies on the same basis as premiums are earned. The liability for
losses and loss expenses includes a provision for unreported losses, based on
past experience, net of the estimated salvage and subrogation recoverable.
II-34
GENERAL MOTORS CORPORATION AND SUBSIDIARIES
NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS - continued
NOTE 1. Significant Accounting Policies (continued)
Product-Related Expenses
Advertising and sales promotion, research and development, and other
product-related costs are charged to expense as incurred. Provisions for
estimated expenses related to product warranty are made at the time the products
are sold. Advertising expense was $3.7 billion in 1998, $4.1 billion in 1997,
and $3.4 billion in 1996. Research and development expense was $7.9 billion in
1998, $8.2 billion in 1997, and $8.9 billion in 1996.
Depreciation and Amortization
Depreciation is provided based on the estimated useful lives of property
groups generally using accelerated methods, which accumulate depreciation of
approximately two-thirds of the depreciable cost during the first half of the
estimated useful lives.
Leasehold improvements are amortized over the period of the lease or the life
of the property, whichever is shorter, with the amortization applied directly to
the asset account. Depreciation on capitalized leases with terms of five years
or less is provided using the straight-line method; leases with terms in excess
of five years are depreciated using the foregoing accelerated methods.
Depreciation of vehicles and other equipment on operating leases or in GM's
use is provided generally on a straight-line basis. The difference between the
net book value and the proceeds of sale or salvage on items disposed of is
accounted for as a charge against or credit to the provision for depreciation.
Expenditures for special tools are amortized over their estimated useful
lives, primarily using the units of production method. Amortization is applied
directly to the asset account. Replacement of special tools for reasons other
than changes in products is charged directly to cost of sales.
Depreciation and amortization expense was as follows (in millions):
Years Ended December 31,
------------------------
Automotive,Electronics and Other Operations 1998 1997 1996
- ------------------------------------------- ---- ---- ----
Depreciation (Note 2) $4,501 $5,901 $4,139
Amortization of special tools (Note 2) 2,661 5,674 2,856
Amortization of intangible assets (Note 9) 119 228 150
--- --- ---
Total $7,281 $11,803 $7,145
====== ======= ======
Financing and Insurance Operations
- ----------------------------------
Depreciation and amortization expense $4,920 $4,813 $4,695
====== ====== ======
Foreign Currency Translation
Foreign currency exchange transaction and translation losses on an after-tax
basis included in consolidated net income in 1998, 1997, and 1996, pursuant to
Statement of Financial Accounting Standards (SFAS) No. 52, Foreign Currency
Translation, amounted to $323 million, $429 million, and $380 million,
respectively.
Discontinued Operations
On June 7, 1996, GM split-off Electronic Data Systems Corporation (EDS) to GM
Class E stockholders on a tax-free basis for U.S. federal income tax purposes.
Under the terms of the split-off, each share of GM former Class E common stock
was exchanged for one share of EDS common stock. In addition, GM and EDS entered
into a new 10-year agreement, under which EDS will continue to be GM's principal
provider of information technology services and EDS made a special inter-company
payment of $500 million to GM.
The financial data related to EDS prior to the June 7, 1996 split-off from GM
are classified as discontinued operations. The financial results of EDS,
including assets and liabilities, subsequent to the split-off are not included
in GM's consolidated financial statements.
EDS systems and other contracts revenues from outside customers included in
income from discontinued operations totaled $4.3 billion for the year ended
December 31, 1996. Income from discontinued operations of $10 million for the
year ended December 31, 1996, is reported net of income tax expense of $14
million.
Income from discontinued operations for 1996 also includes split-off expenses
attributable to $1-2/3 par value common stock of $15 million after-tax or $0.02
per share of $1-2/3 par value common stock.
Cash and Cash Equivalents
Cash equivalents are defined as short-term, highly liquid investments with
original maturities of 90 days or less.
II-35
GENERAL MOTORS CORPORATION AND SUBSIDIARIES
NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS - continued
NOTE 1. Significant Accounting Policies (continued)
Statement of Cash Flows Supplementary Information
Years Ended December 31,
------------------------
Automotive, Electronics and Other Operations 1998 1997 1996
- -------------------------------------------- ---- ---- ----
(Dollars in Millions)
Changes in other operating assets and
liabilities were as follows:
Accounts receivable $166 $(1,160) $206
Prepaid expenses and other deferred charges 158 1,101 (178)
Inventories (276) (716) (757)
Accounts payable 982 1,153 830
Deferred taxes and income taxes payable (1,555) (2,651) (354)
Accrued expenses and other liabilities 829 4,123 (53)
--- ----- ---
Total $304 $1,850 $(306)
==== ====== =====
Cash paid for interest and income
taxes was as follows:
Interest $721 $748 $899
Income taxes $1,873 $1,085 $1,334
Years Ended December 31,
------------------------
Financing and Insurance Operations 1998 1997 1996
- ---------------------------------- ---- ---- ----
(Dollars in Millions)
Changes in other operating assets and
liabilities were as follows:
Other receivables $206 $(714) $(384)
Other assets (36) (55) 44
Accounts payable 2,976 624 700
Deferred taxes and other liabilities 464 612 (597)
--- --- ----
Total $3,610 $467 $(237)
====== ==== =====
Cash paid for interest and income taxes
was as follows:
Interest $5,695 $5,202 $4,893
Income taxes $138 $338 $1,004
Allowance for Credit Losses
An allowance for credit losses is generally established during the period in
which receivables are acquired and is maintained at a level deemed appropriate
by management based on historical and other factors that affect collectibility.
Losses arising from the sale of repossessed collateral are charged to the
allowance for credit losses. Where repossession has not taken place, receivables
are charged off as soon as it is determined that the collateral cannot be
repossessed, generally not more than 150 days after default.
Repossessed Property and Impaired Loans
Losses arising from the repossession of collateral supporting doubtful
accounts and property supporting defaulted operating leases are recognized upon
repossession. Repossessed assets are recorded at the lower of historical cost or
estimated realizable value and are reclassified from finance receivables or
operating leases to nonearning assets with the related adjustments to the
valuation allowance included in other operating expenses.
Non-retail finance receivables are reduced to the lower of book value or the
estimated fair value of collateral when determined to be impaired or
uncollectible.
Valuation of Long-Lived Assets
GM periodically evaluates the carrying value of long-lived assets to be held
and used, including goodwill and other intangible assets, when events and
circumstances warrant such a review. The carrying value of a long-lived asset is
considered impaired when the anticipated undiscounted cash flow from such asset
is separately identifiable and is less than its carrying value. In that event, a
loss is recognized based on the amount by which the carrying value exceeds the
fair market value of the long-lived asset. Fair market value is determined
primarily using the anticipated cash flows discounted at a rate commensurate
with the risk involved. Losses on long-lived assets to be disposed of are
determined in a similar manner, except that fair market values are reduced for
the cost to dispose.
II-36
GENERAL MOTORS CORPORATION AND SUBSIDIARIES
NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS - continued
NOTE 1. Significant Accounting Policies (continued)
Derivative Instruments
GM is party to a variety of foreign exchange, interest rate, and commodity
forward contracts and options entered into in connection with the management of
its exposure to fluctuations in foreign exchange rates, interest rates, and
certain commodity prices. These financial exposures are managed in accordance
with corporate policies and procedures.
GM established the Risk Management Committee to develop and monitor the
Corporation's financial risk strategies, policies, and procedures. The Committee
reviews and approves all new risk management strategies, establishes approval
authority guidelines for approved programs, monitors compliance and performance
of existing risk management programs.
GM does not enter into derivative transactions for trading purposes.
As part of the hedging program approval process, GM's management is required
to identify the specific financial risk which the derivative transaction will
minimize, the appropriate hedging instrument to be used to reduce the risk, and
the correlation between the financial risk and the hedging instrument. Purchase
orders, letters of intent, vehicle production forecasts, capital planning
forecasts, and historical data are used as the basis for determining the
anticipated values of the transactions to be hedged. Generally, GM does not
enter into derivative transactions that do not have a high correlation with the
underlying financial risk. In the infrequent instances in which a derivative
transaction is entered into that does not have a high correlation with the
underlying exposure, the derivative is marked to market and included in net
income on a current basis. The hedge positions, as well as the correlation
between the transaction risks and the hedging instruments, are reviewed by
management on an ongoing basis.
Foreign exchange forward and option contracts are accounted for as hedges to
the extent they are designated, and are effective, as hedges of firm foreign
currency commitments. Additionally, certain foreign exchange option contracts
receive hedge accounting treatment to the extent such contracts hedge certain
anticipated foreign currency transactions. Other such foreign exchange contracts
and options are marked to market and included in net income on a current basis.
Interest rate swaps and options that are designated, and are effective, as
hedges of underlying debt obligations are not marked to market and
included in net income, but are used to adjust interest expense recognized over
the lives of the underlying debt agreements. Gains and losses from terminated
hedge contracts are deferred and amortized over the remaining period of the
original swap or the remaining term of the underlying exposure, whichever is
shorter. Open interest rate contracts are reviewed regularly to ensure that they
remain effective as hedges of interest rate exposure. Written options (including
swaptions, interest rate caps and collars, and swaps with embedded swaptions)
and other swaps that do not qualify for hedge accounting are marked to market
and included in net income on a current basis.
GM also enters into commodity forward and option contracts. Since GM has the
discretion to settle these transactions either in cash or by taking physical
delivery, these contracts are not considered financial instruments for
accounting purposes. Commodity forward contracts and options are accounted for
as hedges to the extent they are designated, and are effective, as hedges of
firm or anticipated commodity purchase contracts. Other commodity forward
contracts and options are marked to market and included in net income on a
current basis.
Postemployment Benefits and Employee Termination Benefits
GM's postemployment benefits primarily relate to GM's extended disability
benefit program in the United States and employee job security and supplemental
unemployment compensation benefits (mainly pursuant to union or other
contractual agreements). Extended disability benefits are accrued on a
service-driven basis and employee job security and supplemental unemployment
compensation benefits are accrued on an event-driven basis. Accruals for
postemployment benefits represent the discounted future cash expenditures
expected during the period between the idling of affected employees and the time
when such employees are redeployed, retire or otherwise terminate their
employment.
Voluntary termination benefits are accrued when the employees accept the
offer. Involuntary termination benefits are accrued when management has
committed to a termination plan and the benefit arrangement is communicated to
affected employees.
Environmental Liabilities
GM recognizes environmental liabilities when a loss is probable and can be
reasonably estimated. Such liabilities are generally not subject to insurance
coverage. The cost of each environmental liability is estimated by engineering,
financial, and legal specialists within GM based on current law. Such estimates
are based primarily upon the estimated cost of investigation and remediation
required and the likelihood that other potentially responsible parties (PRPs)
will be able to fulfill their commitments at the sites where GM may be jointly
and severally liable. At sites being addressed under the U.S. Comprehensive
Environmental Response, Compensation and Liability Act or similar state laws
(the Superfund Sites), GM typically recognizes a loss once it has been named as
a PRP and has determined that some loss is probable and estimable. The Superfund
Sites are primarily multi-PRP sites not owned or operated by GM.
II-37
GENERAL MOTORS CORPORATION AND SUBSIDIARIES
NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS - continued
NOTE 1. Significant Accounting Policies (concluded)
For GM's operating plants, an estimated liability is typically recognized either
upon completion of an environmental assessment or when GM proposes an agreement
with the appropriate regulatory agency to take action at a site. For closed or
closing plants owned by GM and properties being sold, an estimated liability is
typically recognized at the time the closure decision is made or sale is
recorded and is based on an environmental assessment of the plant property.
GM's estimates for environmental obligations are dependent primarily on the
nature and extent of historical information and physical data relating to a
contaminated site, the complexity of the site, uncertainty as to what remedy and
technology will be required, the outcome of discussions with regulatory agencies
and other PRPs at multi-party sites, the number and financial viability of other
PRPs, and the timing of expenditures; accordingly, such estimates could change
materially as GM periodically evaluates and revises such estimates based on
expenditures against established reserves and the availability of additional
information.
New Accounting Standards
In the first quarter of 1998, the AICPA's Accounting Standards Executive
Committee issued Statement of Position (SOP) 98-1, Accounting for the Costs of
Computer Software Developed or Obtained for Internal Use. This SOP requires that
entities capitalize certain internal-use software cost once specific criteria
are met. Currently, GM generally expenses the costs of developing or obtaining
internal-use software as incurred. GM will adopt SOP 98-1 on January 1, 1999, as
required. GM expects that under the new SOP, approximately $300 million to $350
million in spending will be capitalized in 1999 that would have otherwise been
expensed.
In the second quarter of 1998, the Financial Accounting Standards Board
issued Statement of Financial Accounting Standards (SFAS) No. 133, Accounting
for Derivative Instruments and Hedging Activities. SFAS No. 133 requires an
entity to recognize all derivatives as either assets or liabilities in the
statement of financial position and measure those instruments at fair value.
Gains or losses resulting from changes in the values of those derivatives would
be accounted for depending on the use of the derivative and whether it qualifies
for hedge accounting. GM plans to adopt SFAS No. 133 by January 1, 2000, as
required. GM is currently assessing the impact of this Statement on GM's
consolidated financial statements.
Labor Force
GM, on a worldwide basis, has a concentration of its labor supply in
employees working under union collective bargaining agreements, a significant
number of which will expire in 1999.
Hughes Transactions
On December 17, 1997, GM and former Hughes completed a series of related
transactions (Hughes Transactions) that were designed to address strategic
challenges facing the three principal businesses of former Hughes and unlock
stockholder value in GM. The Hughes Transactions included the tax-free spin-off
of the defense electronics business of former Hughes (Hughes Defense) to holders
of $1-2/3 par value and Class H common stocks, which was then followed
immediately by the merger of Hughes Defense with Raytheon Company (Raytheon).
Concurrently, Delco Electronics Corporation (Delco), the automotive electronics
subsidiary of former Hughes, was transferred from former Hughes to GM's Delphi
Automotive Systems unit. Finally, Class H common stock was recapitalized into a
GM tracking stock, Class H common stock, that is linked to the
telecommunications and space businesses of Hughes.
The spin-off of Hughes Defense and merger with Raytheon had a total value to
GM and its stockholders of approximately $9.8 billion that consisted of
approximately $4.0 billion cash retained by Hughes from debt proceeds incurred
by Hughes Defense prior to its spin-off and $5.8 billion of Hughes Defense Class
A common stock distributed to holders of $1-2/3 par value and Class H common
stock. Substantially all of the proceeds from the debt obligation of Hughes
Defense were made available to Hughes. The distribution of Hughes Defense to the
$1-2/3 par value and Class H common stockholders was recorded by GM at fair
value and resulted in the recognition of a $4.3 billion gain that was included
in other income. In addition, GM's total stockholders' equity was reduced by
approximately $1.5 billion as a result of the Hughes Transactions.
GM distributed a total of 102,630,503 shares of Class A common stock of
Hughes Defense, 44,308,316 shares or 43.2% to $1-2/3 par value stockholders and
58,322,187 shares or 56.8% to Class H stockholders, which represented
approximately 30% of the total equity of the newly combined Hughes
Defense/Raytheon Company. The distribution to Class H common stockholders, which
had a total value of approximately $3.3 billion, accounted for their tracking
stock interest in Hughes Defense valued at approximately $1.5 billion, plus an
additional amount to compensate them for the elimination of their tracking stock
interest in Delco and other factors valued at approximately $1.8 billion.
II-38
GENERAL MOTORS CORPORATION AND SUBSIDIARIES
NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS - continued
NOTE 2. Competitiveness Studies
GM periodically evaluates the carrying value of long-lived assets to be held
and used, when events and circumstances warrant such review. These evaluations
and reviews are generally done in conjunction with the annual business planning
cycle.
Based on the results of these reviews, GM recorded pre-tax charges against
income totaling $534 million ($420 million after-tax, or $0.64 per share of
$1-2/3 par value common stock) in 1998 and $6.4 billion ($4.0 billion after-tax,
or $5.59 per share of $1-2/3 par value common stock) in 1997. Following are the
pre-tax components of the charges:
1998 1997
---- ----
Underperforming assets, including both
vehicle and component-manufacturing assets $298 million $3.7 billion
Capacity reductions and employee separation
programs $236 million $1.4 billion
Assets held for disposal - $0.5 billion
Other - $0.8 billion
In 1998, the pre-tax charges were comprised of $105 million ($80 million
after-tax) for GMNA, $310 million ($192 million after-tax) for Delphi, $82
million ($51 million after-tax) for GMLAAM, and $37 million ($97 million
after-tax) for GMAP. Overall, these charges had the effect of increasing 1998
cost of sales, depreciation and amortization and other expenses by $246 million,
$223 million and $65 million, respectively. In 1997, the pre-tax charges were
comprised of $3.8 billion ($2.4 billion after-tax) for GMNA, $1.4 billion ($870
million after-tax) for Delphi, $848 million ($488 million after-tax) for GME,
$174 million ($170 million after-tax) for GMAP and $205 million ($128 million
after-tax) for GM Automotive, Electronics and Other Operations' Other segment.
These charges reduced 1997 net sales and revenues by $548 million and increased
cost of sales, depreciation and amortization and other expenses by $1.7
billion, $4.1 billion and $72 million, respectively. Amounts related to capacity
reduction and other expenses that were recorded in 1997 that still remain as of
December 31, 1998 total $1.1 billion. Going forward, GM's future cash
requirements relating to the 1998 and 1997 charges are expected to total
approximately $1.4 billion over the next five years, with over 70% evenly
expended over the first three years.
In 1998, the amount included for underperforming assets represents charges
recorded pursuant to GM's policy for the valuation of long-lived assets. GM
re-evaluated the carrying values of its long-lived assets during its annual
business planning cycle. This re-evaluation was performed using product specific
cash flow information. As a result, the carrying values of certain tooling and
other property, plant and equipment was determined to be impaired as the
separately identifiable, anticipated, undiscounted future cash flows from such
assets were less than their respective carrying values. The resulting pre-tax
impairment charges represented the amount by which the carrying values of such
assets exceeded their respective fair market values. The amount included for
employee separation programs represents voluntary early retirement and other
separation programs affecting approximately 5,700, 3,300 and 1,150, for Delphi,
GMLAAM and employees involved in the restructuring of the U.S. sales and service
field organizations, respectively.
In 1997, the amount included for underperforming assets, principally tooling,
property, plant and equipment and investments in joint ventures, represents
charges recorded pursuant to GM's policy for the valuation of long-lived assets.
The amount included for capacity reductions represents post-employment benefits
payable to employees, pursuant to contractual agreements and costs associated
with the disposal of assets at facilities subject to capacity reductions. This
affects approximately 10,000 employees at GMNA's Buick City Assembly and V-6
Powertrain plants in Flint, Michigan; Detroit Truck Assembly in Detroit,
Michigan; Delphi's leaf-spring plant in Livonia, Michigan; and certain GME
facilities. Pursuant to some of these actions, additional charges of $74 million
($44 million after-tax) related to work schedule modifications at Opel Belgium
were recorded during the second quarter of 1998. Assets held for disposal
primarily related to Delphi's seating, lighting, and coil spring operations,
which were announced for sale during 1997 and subsequently sold in 1998.
Additional charges recorded in 1998 in other income related to these sales
amounted to $430 million ($271 million after-tax). Delphi's results of
operations included total operating losses related to these businesses of $107
million, $488 million and $224 million for the years ended December 31, 1998,
1997 and 1996, respectively. The amount included as other primarily represents
losses on contracts associated with pricing pressures on used vehicles and the
related effect on GM's retail-lease commitments. These pricing pressures are
primarily a result of increased industry sales incentives on new vehicles.
In connection with the 1997 evaluation of long-lived assets, GM reviewed its
remaining previously recorded reserve for plant closings and reclassified the
reserve to the consolidated balance sheet accounts that reflected the nature of
the specific reserve components. At December 31, 1998 and 1997, the remaining
balance of this previously recorded reserve represents primarily accrued
expenses for post-employment benefits affecting approximately 3,100 employees
(mainly pursuant to union or other contractual arrangements) of approximately
$900 million and $1.0 billion, respectively. In 1996, favorable
II-39
GENERAL MOTORS CORPORATION AND SUBSIDIARIES
NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS - continued
NOTE 2. Competitiveness Studies (concluded)
adjustments to the previously recorded plant closings reserve totaled $789
million. Of this amount, $409 million reflected GM's ability to utilize its
Wilmington, Delaware facility for the assembly of a new generation Saturn
vehicle, and $380 million was primarily due to revised estimates of
postemployment benefit costs to be incurred in connection with plant closings.
Separately, GM recorded pre-tax plant closings charges of $80 million in 1997
and $62 million in 1996.
NOTE 3. Marketable and Other Securities
Marketable securities held by GM are classified as available-for-sale, except
for certain mortgage-related securities of GMAC, which are classified as trading
securities. The aggregate excess of fair value over cost, net of related income
taxes, for available-for-sale securities is included as a separate component of
stockholders' equity. The excess of fair value over cost for trading securities
is included in income on a current basis. GM determines cost on the specific
identification basis.
Automotive, Electronics and Other Operations
- --------------------------------------------
Investments in marketable securities were
as follows (in millions):
December 31, 1998
-----------------
Fair Unrealized Unrealized
Cost Value Gains Losses
---- ----- ----- ------
Type of Security
Bonds, notes, and other securities
United States government
and governmental
agencies and authorities $291 $291 $ - $ -
States, municipalities, and
political subdivisions 11 11 - -
Corporate debt securities and other 98 105 7 -
-- --- - --
Total marketable securities $400 $407 $7 $ -
==== ==== == ==
December 31, 1997
-----------------
Fair Unrealized Unrealized
Cost Value Gains Losses
---- ----- ----- ------
Type of Security
Bonds, notes, and other securities
United States government
and governmental
agencies and authorities $621 $623 $2 $ -
Corporate debt securities and other 3,188 3,203 15 -
----- ----- -- --
Total marketable securities $3,809 $3,826 $17 $ -
====== ====== === ==
Debt securities totaling $136 million mature within one year and $271 million
mature after one through five years. Proceeds from sales of marketable
securities totaled $4.4 billion in 1998, $10.9 billion in 1997 and $3.4 billion
in 1996. The gross gains related to sales of marketable securities were $17
million, $121 million and $106 million in 1998, 1997 and 1996, respectively.
The gross losses related to sales of marketable securities were $11 million, $51
million and $4 million in 1998, 1997 and 1996, respectively. Other securities
classified as cash equivalents, which consisted primarily of commercial paper,
repurchase agreements and certificates of deposit, were $9.2 billion and $10.0
billion at December 31, 1998 and 1997, respectively.
Financing and Insurance Operations
- ----------------------------------
Investments in securities were
as follows (in millions):
December 31, 1998
-----------------
Fair Unrealized Unrealized
Cost Value Gains Losses
---- ----- ----- ------
Type of Security
Bonds, notes, and other securities
United States government
and governmental
agencies and authorities $445 $456 $12 $1
States, municipalities, and
political subdivisions 1,495 1,600 117 12
Mortgage-backed securities 415 383 6 38
Corporate debt securities and other 1,895 1,926 66 35
----- ----- -- --
Total debt securities
available-for-sale 4,250 4,365 201 86
Mortgage-backed securities held for
trading purposes 3,173 3,173 - -
----- ----- --- ---
Total debt securities 7,423 7,538 201 86
Equity securities 779 1,210 534 103
--- ----- --- ---
Total investment in securities $8,202 $8,748 $735 $189
====== ====== ==== ====
II-40
GENERAL MOTORS CORPORATION AND SUBSIDIARIES
NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS - continued
NOTE 3. Marketable and Other Securities (concluded)
December 31, 1997
-----------------
Fair Unrealized Unrealized
Cost Value Gains Losses
---- ----- ----- ------
Type of Security
Bonds, notes, and other securities
United States government
and governmental
agencies and authorities $687 $694 $7 $-
States, municipalities, and
political subdivisions 1,576 1,686 121 11
Mortgage-backed securities 110 113 3 -
Corporate debt securities and other 2,401 2,441 50 10
----- ----- -- --
Total debt securities
available-for-sale 4,774 4,934 181 21
Mortgage-backed securities held for
trading purposes 2,063 2,063 - -
----- ----- --- --
Total debt securities 6,837 6,997 181 21
Equity securities 523 899 416 40
--- --- --- --
Total investment in securities $7,360 $7,896 $597 $61
====== ====== ==== ===
Debt securities totaling $317 million mature within one year, $1.3 billion
mature after one through five years, $1.5 billion mature after five years
through 10 years and $4.5 billion mature after 10 years. Proceeds from sales of
marketable securities totaled $3.6 billion in 1998, $2.7 billion in 1997 and
$2.3 billion in 1996. The gross gains related to sales of marketable securities
were $218 million, $176 million and $130 million in 1998, 1997 and 1996,
respectively. The gross losses related to sales of marketable securities were
$49 million, $45 million and $29 million in 1998, 1997 and 1996, respectively.
Other securities classified as cash equivalents, which consisted primarily of
commercial paper, repurchase agreements and certificates of deposit, were $155
million and $293 million at December 31, 1998 and 1997, respectively.
NOTE 4. Finance Receivables - Net
Finance receivables - net included the following (in millions):
December 31,
------------
1998 1997
---- ----
U.S.
Retail $33,321 $26,570
Wholesale 17,722 15,213
Leasing and lease financing 632 716
Term loans to dealers and others 4,924 3,118
----- -----
Total U.S. 56,599 45,617
------ ------
Canada, Mexico and International
Retail 9,337 8,059
Wholesale 6,668 6,475
Leasing and lease financing 2,023 2,069
Term loans to dealers and others 857 488
--- ---
Total Canada, Mexico and International 18,885 17,091
------ ------
Total finance receivables 75,484 62,708
Less- Unearned income (4,027) (3,516)
Allowance for financing losses (1,021) (903)
------ ----
Total finance receivables - net $70,436 $58,289
======= =======
The aggregate amount of total finance receivables maturing in each of the
five years following December 31, 1998 is as follows: 1999-$42.1 billion;
2000-$13.7 billion; 2001-$10.7 billion; 2002-$5.6 billion; 2003-$2.5 billion;
and 2004 and thereafter-$900 million.
GMAC participates in various sales of receivables programs and sold retail
finance receivables through special purpose subsidiaries with principal
aggregating $1.6 billion in 1998 and $5.4 billion in 1997. These subsidiaries
generally retain a subordinated investment of no greater than 7.0% of the total
receivables pool and market the remaining portion. These subordinated
investments absorb losses related to sold receivables to the extent that such
losses are greater than the excess cash flows from those receivables and cash
reserves related to the sale transaction. Subordinated interests in trusts are
recorded in investments in securities. Pre-tax gains relating to such sales
(excluding limited recourse loss provisions which generally have been provided
at the time the contracts were originally acquired) amounted to $31.0
II-41
GENERAL MOTORS CORPORATION AND SUBSIDIARIES
NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS - continued
NOTE 4. Finance Receivables - Net (concluded)
million in 1998 and $84.8 million in 1997. GMAC continues to service these
receivables for a fee that is considered to be adequate compensation and earns
other related ongoing income. GMAC's sold retail finance receivables servicing
portfolio amounted to $4.0 billion and $6.0 billion at December 31, 1998 and
1997, respectively.
GMAC also sold wholesale receivables that it continues to service for a fee
that is considered to be adequate compensation. The sold wholesale receivables
servicing portfolio totaled $3.3 billion and $6.3 billion at December 31, 1998
and 1997, respectively. Additionally, GMAC is committed to sell eligible
wholesale receivables, on a revolving basis, arising in certain dealer accounts.
NOTE 5. Inventories
Automotive, Electronics and Other Operations' inventories included the
following (in millions):
December 31,
------------
1998 1997
---- ----
Productive material, work in process, and supplies $7,287 $7,023
Finished product, service parts, etc. 7,215 7,347
----- -----
Total inventories at FIFO 14,502 14,370
Less LIFO allowance 2,295 2,268
----- -----
Total inventories (less allowances) $12,207 $12,102
======= =======
Inventories are stated generally at cost, which is not in excess of market.
The cost of substantially all U.S. inventories other than the inventories of
Saturn Corporation (Saturn), Delco and Hughes is determined by the last-in,
first-out (LIFO) method. The cost of non-U.S., Saturn, Delco and Hughes
inventories is determined generally by either the first-in, first-out (FIFO) or
average cost methods.
NOTE 6. Income Taxes
Income from continuing operations before income taxes and minority interests
included the following (in millions):
Years Ended December 31,
------------------------
1998 1997 1996
---- ---- ----
U.S. income $1,228 $3,413 $1,703
Foreign income 3,384 4,379 4,789
----- ----- -----
Total $4,612 $7,792 $6,492
====== ====== ======
The provision for income taxes was estimated as follows (in millions):
Income taxes estimated to be payable
(refundable) currently
U.S. federal $36 $1,307 $(357)
Foreign 2,086 1,793 1,607
U.S. state and local 276 198 197
--- --- ---
Total payable currently 2,398 3,298 1,447
----- ----- -----
Deferred income tax (credit) expense - net
U.S. federal 145 (1,467) 477
Foreign (844) (396) (147)
U.S. state and local (207) (332) (15)
---- ---- ---
Total deferred (906) (2,195) 315
---- ------ ---
Investment tax credits (29) (34) (39)
--- --- ---
Total income taxes $1,463 $1,069 $1,723
====== ====== ======
Annual tax provisions include amounts considered sufficient to pay
assessments that may result from examination of prior year tax returns; however,
the amount ultimately paid upon resolution of issues raised may differ
materially from the amount accrued.
Provisions are made for estimated U.S. and foreign income taxes, less
available tax credits and deductions, which may be incurred on the remittance of
the Corporation's share of subsidiaries' undistributed earnings not deemed to be
permanently invested. Taxes have not been provided on foreign subsidiaries'
earnings, which are deemed essentially permanently reinvested, of approximately
$9.7 billion at December 31, 1998 and $8.7 billion at December 31, 1997.
Quantification of the deferred tax liability, if any, associated with
permanently reinvested earnings is not practicable.
II-42
GENERAL MOTORS CORPORATION AND SUBSIDIARIES
NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS - continued
NOTE 6. Income Taxes (concluded)
A reconciliation of the provision for income taxes compared with the amounts
at the U.S. federal statutory rate was as follows (in millions):
Years Ended December 31,
------------------------
1998 1997 1996
---- ---- ----
Tax at U.S. federal statutory income tax rate $1,614 $2,727 $2,272
Hughes Defense spin-off - (1,494) -
Foreign rates other than 35% 60 (123) (285)
Taxes on unremitted earnings of subsidiaries 98 44 49
Tax effect of the 1995 contribution of
Class E common stock to
the U.S. hourly pension plan - - (245)
Research and experimentation credits (237) (311) (165)
Subsidiary settlement of affirmative
claim with IRS (92) - -
Other adjustments 20 226 97
-- --- --
Total income tax $1,463 $1,069 $1,723
====== ====== ======
Deferred income tax assets and liabilities for 1998 and 1997 reflect the
impact of temporary differences between amounts of assets and liabilities for
financial reporting purposes and the bases of such assets and liabilities as
measured by tax laws. The net deferred tax asset in the U.S. was $20.8 billion
and $20.3 billion at December 31, 1998 and 1997, respectively.
Temporary differences and carryforwards that gave rise to deferred tax assets
and liabilities included the following (in millions):
December 31,
------------
1998 1997
---- ----
Deferred Tax Deferred Tax
------------ ------------
Assets Liabilities Assets Liabilities
------ ----------- ------ -----------
Postretirement benefits other
than pensions $16,135 $ - $15,683 $ -
Minimum pension liability adjustment 3,054 - 2,423 -
Employee benefit plans 2,171 5,816 2,226 6,047
Policy and warranty reserves 2,534 - 2,445 -
Sales and product reserves 2,176 - 1,977 8
Profits on long-term contracts 146 156 156 143
Alternative minimum tax credit
carryforwards 690 - 673 -
Depreciation and amortization expense 602 3,263 900 3,130
Capitalized research and
experimentation 82 - 285 -
U.S. state net operating loss
carryforwards 559 - 559 -
Financing losses 407 - 361 -
Tax credit carryforwards 879 - 467 -
Lease transactions - 3,624 - 3,075
Tax on unremitted profits - 372 - 339
Other U.S. 5,835 2,918 6,700 3,016
Miscellaneous foreign 2,861 978 1,850 692
----- --- ----- ---
Subtotal 38,131 17,127 36,705 16,450
Valuation allowances (672) - (700) -
------ ------ ------ ------
Total deferred taxes $37,459 $17,127 $36,005 $16,450
======= ======= ======= =======
Realization of the net deferred tax assets is dependent on future reversals
of existing taxable temporary differences and adequate future taxable income,
exclusive of reversing temporary differences and carryforwards. Although
realization is not assured, management believes that it is more likely than not
that the net deferred tax assets will be realized. The amount of the net
deferred tax assets considered realizable, however, could be reduced in the near
term if actual future taxable income is lower than estimated, or if there are
differences in the timing or amount of future reversals of existing taxable
temporary differences.
The alternative minimum tax credit can be carried forward indefinitely. The
U.S. state net operating loss carryforwards will expire in the years 1999 - 2013
and 2018 if not utilized; however, a substantial portion will not expire until
after the year 2004. The tax credit carryforwards will expire in the years 2000
- - 2013 and 2018 if not utilized. II-43 GENERAL MOTORS CORPORATION AND
SUBSIDIARIES
NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS - continued
NOTE 7. Equipment on Operating Leases
The Corporation has significant investments in the residual values of its
leasing portfolios. The residual values represent the estimate of the values of
the assets at the end of the lease contracts and are initially recorded based on
appraisals and estimates. Realization of the residual values is dependent on the
Corporation's future ability to market the vehicles under then prevailing market
conditions. Management reviews residual values periodically to determine that
recorded amounts are appropriate. Included in equipment on operating leases and
other assets for Automotive, Electronics and Other Operations was the following
(in millions):
December 31,
------------
1998 1997
---- ----
Equipment on operating leases $9,064 $8,312
Less accumulated depreciation (935) (992)
---- ----
Net book value $8,129 $7,320
====== ======
Equipment on operating leases included in investment in leases and other
receivables for Financing and Insurance Operations was as follows (in millions):
December 31,
------------
1998 1997
---- ----
Equipment on operating leases $35,804 $33,364
Less accumulated depreciation (6,817) (6,994)
------ ------
Net book value $28,987 $26,370
======= =======
The lease payments to be received related to equipment on operating leases
maturing in each of the five years following December 31, 1998 are as follows:
Automotive, Electronics and Other Operations -1999-$5.5 billion; 2000-$490
million; 2001-$478 million; 2002-$463 million; and 2003-$441 million; Financing
and Insurance Operations - 1999-$6.1 billion; 2000-$4.1 billion; 2001-$1.6
billion; 2002-$161 million; and 2003-$8 million.
NOTE 8. Property - Net
Property - net included the following for Automotive, Electronics and Other
Operations (in millions):
Estimated December 31,
Useful ------------
Lives (Years) 1998 1997
------------- ---- ----
Land - $774 $703
Land improvements 10-30 1,906 1,805
Leasehold improvements - less amortization 3-10 222 209
Buildings 29-45 13,400 12,733
Machinery and equipment 3-30 49,284 46,602
Furniture and office equipment 3-20 1,089 972
Capitalized leases 5-40 1,120 1,137
Construction in progress - 4,397 4,673
----- -----
Real estate, plants, and equipment 72,192 68,834
Less accumulated depreciation (42,829) (41,722)
------- -------
Real estate, plants, and equipment - net 29,363 27,112
Special tools - net 7,824 6,802
----- -----
Total property - net $37,187 $33,914
======= =======
Financing and Insurance Operations had net property of $386 million and $265
million recorded in other assets at December 31, 1998 and 1997, respectively.
II-44
GENERAL MOTORS CORPORATION AND SUBSIDIARIES
NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS - continued
NOTE 9. Intangible Assets - Net
Intangible assets - net included the following for Automotive, Electronics
and Other Operations (in millions):
December 31,
------------
1998 1997
---- ----
Pensions $6,434 $7,683
Intangible assets relating to acquisition of HAC 427 448
Goodwill relating to all other acquisitions 3,361 2,621
----- -----
Total intangible assets - net $10,222 $10,752
======= =======
Intangible assets relating to the acquisition of Hughes Aircraft Company
(HAC) as of December 31, 1998 are applicable to Hughes. Such intangible assets
relate to patents and related technology and other intangible assets that were
originally recorded in 1985 and are being amortized over 40 years. Goodwill
resulting from other acquisitions is amortized over periods not exceeding 40
years. Such goodwill includes $3.1 billion associated with Hughes' 1997 merger
with, and additional 1998 investment in, PanAmSat Corporation (PAS).
Financing and Insurance Operations had net intangible assets of $855 million
and $717 million recorded in other assets at December 31, 1998 and 1997,
respectively.
NOTE 10. Long-Term Debt and Loans Payable
Automotive, Electronics and Other Operations
Long-term debt and loans payable were as follows (in millions):
December 31,
Weighted-Average ------------
Interest Rate(1) 1998 1997
---------------- ---- ----
Long-term debt and loans payable
Payable within one year
Current portion of long-term debt 7.4% $273 $627
Commercial paper (2) 5.7% 381 29
All other 8.2% 872 -
Payable beyond one year
1999 - - 796
2000 9.5% 799 738
2001 9.8% 432 457
2002 13.1% 47 21
2003 7.5% 611 425
2004 and after 7.5% 5,345 3,278
Unamortized discount (17) (20)
--- ---
Total long-term debt and
loans payable $8,743 $6,351
====== ======
- ---------------
(1) The 1998 weighted-average interest rate for commercial paper includes the
impact of interest rate swap agreements.
(2) The 1997 weighted-average interest rate for commercial paper was 5.7%.
Amounts payable beyond one year after consideration of foreign currency swaps
at December 31, 1998 included $401 million in currencies other than the U.S.
Dollar, primarily the Brazilian Real ($231 million), the Canadian Dollar ($52
million), the French Franc ($44 million) and the German Mark ($24 million).
At December 31, 1998 and 1997, long-term debt and loans payable for
automotive, electronics and other operations included $7.5 billion and $4.5
billion, respectively, of obligations with fixed interest rates and $1.2 billion
and $1.9 billion, respectively, of obligations with variable interest rates
(predominantly based on the London Interbank Offering Rate - i.e., LIBOR), after
considering the impact of interest rate swap agreements.
To achieve its desired balance, between fixed and variable rate debt, within
prescribed limits, GM has entered into interest rate swap, cap and floor
agreements. The notional amounts of such agreements as of December 31, 1998 for
automotive, electronics and other operations were approximately $1.8 billion
($600 million pay variable and $1.2 billion pay fixed), $100 million and $nil,
respectively. The notional amounts of such agreements as of December 31, 1997
were approximately $2.4 billion ($1.2 billion pay variable and $1.2 billion pay
fixed), $200 million and $50 million, respectively.
II-45
GENERAL MOTORS CORPORATION AND SUBSIDIARIES
NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS - continued
NOTE 10. Long-Term Debt and Loans Payable (concluded)
GM and its subsidiaries maintain substantial bank lines of credit with
various banks that totaled $14.5 billion at December 31, 1998, of which $6.7
billion represented short-term credit facilities and $7.8 billion represented
long-term credit facilities. At December 31, 1997, bank lines of credit totaled
$9.3 billion, of which $3.9 billion represented short-term credit facilities and
$5.4 billion represented long-term credit facilities. The unused short-term and
long-term portions of the credit lines totaled $6.2 billion and $7.2 billion at
December 31, 1998, compared with $2.5 billion and $4.8 billion at December 31,
1997. Certain bank lines of credit contain covenants with which the Corporation
and applicable subsidiaries were in compliance during the year ended December
31, 1998.
Financing and Insurance Operations
- ----------------------------------
Debt was as follows (in millions):
December 31,
Weighted-Average ------------
Interest Rate(1) 1998 1997
---------------- ---- ----
Debt
Payable within one year
Current portion of debt 6.2% $12,701 $10,851
Commercial paper (2) 5.3% 32,143 27,461
All other (2) 7.5% 15,208 12,087
Payable beyond one year
1999 - - 11,347
2000 6.2% 13,154 6,165
2001 6.0% 10,322 5,932
2002 5.9% 8,561 7,017
2003 5.8% 7,919 2,603
2004 and after 6.8% 6,072 3,907
Unamortized discount (671) (694)
-------- -------
Total debt $105,409 $86,676
======== =======
- ------------------
(1) The 1998 weighted-average interest rate for commercial paper includes the
impact of interest rate swap agreements.
(2) The 1997 weighted-average interest
rate for commercial paper and other short-term borrowings was 5.6% and 5.2%,
respectively.
Amounts payable beyond one year after consideration of foreign currency swaps
at December 31, 1998 included $8.3 billion in currencies other than the U.S.
Dollar, primarily the Canadian Dollar ($4.3 billion), the German Mark ($1.6
billion), the U.K. Pound Sterling ($898 million) and the Australian Dollar ($783
million).
At December 31, 1998 and 1997, debt for financing and insurance operations
included $72.8 billion and $67.9 billion, respectively, of obligations with
fixed interest rates and $32.6 billion and $18.8 billion, respectively, of
obligations with variable interest rates (predominantly based on the London
Interbank Offering Rate - i.e., LIBOR), after considering the impact of interest
rate swap agreements.
To achieve its desired balance, between fixed and variable rate debt, within
prescribed limits, GM has entered into interest rate swap, cap, floor and option
agreements. The notional amounts of such agreements as of December 31, 1998 for
financing and insurance operations were approximately $13.2 billion ($9.5
billion pay variable and $3.7 billion pay fixed), $400 million, $1.0 billion and
$1.0 billion, respectively. The notional amounts for interest rate swap, cap and
option agreements as of December 31, 1997 were approximately $9.7 billion ($5.9
billion pay variable and $3.8 billion pay fixed), $1.1 billion and $6.5
billion, respectively.
GM's financing and insurance subsidiaries maintain substantial bank lines of
credit with various banks that totaled $44.3 billion at December 31, 1998, of
which $17.3 billion represented short-term credit facilities and $27.0 billion
represented long-term credit facilities. At December 31, 1997, bank lines of
credit totaled $41.0 billion, of which $25.8 billion represented short-term
credit facilities and $15.2 billion represented long-term credit facilities. The
unused short-term and long-term portions of the credit lines totaled $7.5
billion and $25.7 billion at December 31, 1998, compared with $17.7 billion and
$13.9 billion at December 31, 1997. Certain bank lines of credit contain
covenants with which the Corporation and applicable subsidiaries were in
compliance during the year ended December 31, 1998.
II-46
GENERAL MOTORS CORPORATION AND SUBSIDIARIES
NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS - continued
NOTE 11. Derivative Financial Instruments and Risk Management
GM is a party to financial instruments with off-balance-sheet risk. These
financial instruments are used in the normal course of business to manage
exposure to fluctuations in interest rates and foreign exchange rates, and to
meet the financing needs of its customers.
The primary classes of derivatives used by GM are foreign exchange forward
contracts and options, interest rate swaps and options and forward contracts to
purchase or sell mortgages or mortgage-backed securities. Those instruments
involve, to varying degrees, market risk, as the instruments are subject to rate
and price fluctuations, and elements of credit risk in the event a counterparty
should default. Credit risk is managed through the approval and periodic
monitoring of financially sound counterparties.
Derivative transactions are used to hedge underlying business exposures.
Market risk in these instruments is offset by opposite movements in the
underlying exposure. Cash receipts or payments on these contracts normally occur
at maturity, or for interest rate swap agreements, at periodic contractually
defined intervals.
Foreign Exchange Forward Contracts and Options
GM is an international corporation with operations in over 50 countries and
has foreign currency exposures at these operations related to buying, selling
and financing in currencies other than the local currency. GM's most significant
foreign currency exposures relate to Canada, Mexico, Western European countries
(primarily Germany, United Kingdom, Spain, Italy, Belgium and France),
Australia, Japan and Brazil. The magnitude of these exposures significantly
varies over time depending upon the strength of local automotive markets and
sourcing decisions.
GM enters into agreements by which it seeks to manage certain of its foreign
exchange exposures in accordance with established policy guidelines, primarily
through foreign exchange forward contracts and purchased and written foreign
exchange options. These agreements primarily hedge cash flows such as debt, firm
commitments and anticipated transactions involving vehicles, components, fixed
assets, and subsidiary dividends. As a general practice, GM has not hedged the
foreign exchange exposure related to either the translation of overseas earnings
into U.S. dollars, or the translation of overseas equity positions back to U.S.
dollars. At December 31, 1998 and 1997, the Automotive, Electronics and Other
Operations held foreign exchange forward contracts of $6.3 billion and $3.9
billion (including cross-currency swaps of $70 million), respectively. At
December 31, 1998 and 1997, the Automotive, Electronics and Other Operations had
entered into foreign exchange options of $2.8 billion and $2.9 billion,
respectively. At December 31, 1998 and 1997, the Financing and Insurance
Operations held foreign exchange forward contracts of $8.0 billion and $6.2
billion (including cross-currency swaps of $3.4 billion and $2.0 billion),
respectively.
The Automotive, Electronics and Other Operations had deferred hedging losses
on outstanding foreign exchange forward contracts hedging firm commitments to
purchase inventory or fixed assets totaling $3 million and $17 million at
December 31, 1998 and 1997, respectively. Deferred hedging losses on outstanding
purchased foreign exchange option contracts hedging firm and anticipated
transactions to purchase inventory or fixed assets totaled $2 million and $20
million at December 31, 1998 and 1997, respectively. The Financing and Insurance
Operations had deferred hedging gains on outstanding foreign exchange forward
contracts hedging firm commitments to purchase assets totaling $13 million and
$9 million at December 31, 1998 and 1997, respectively. Such deferred amounts on
outstanding foreign exchange forward and option contracts will be included in
the cost of such assets when purchased, and subsequently recognized in
operations as part of the basis of these assets. In the event the contract is
terminated early or the anticipated transaction is no longer likely to occur,
the derivative is then marked to market. Foreign exchange forward contracts,
which hedge foreign exchange exposures of anticipated inventory, fixed assets
and sales transactions, are marked to market and recognized with other gains or
losses on foreign exchange transactions in the consolidated statement of income.
GM's firm commitments are typically up to one year and may extend for periods of
up to three years.
Interest Rate Swaps and Options
GM's financing and cash management activities subject it to market risk from
exposure to changes in interest rates. GM has entered into various financial
instrument transactions to maintain the desired level of exposure to the risk of
interest rate fluctuations and to minimize interest expense. To achieve this
objective, GM will at times use written options in the management of these
exposures.
In a limited number of cases, interest rate swaps are matched to the
anticipated roll-over of investments, wholesale assets or debt, and are executed
over terms of up to five years on a portfolio basis to achieve specific interest
rate management objectives. Swaps are also matched to operating lease payments
where interest rate exposure exists. The differential paid or received on such
swaps is recorded as an adjustment to expense or income over the term of the
underlying agreement or matched portfolio.
II-47
GENERAL MOTORS CORPORATION AND SUBSIDIARIES
NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS - continued
NOTE 11. Derivative Financial Instruments and Risk Management (concluded)
Interest rate swaps are contractual agreements between GM and another party
to exchange fixed and floating interest rate payments periodically over the life
of the agreements without the exchange of underlying principal amounts. Interest
rate options, including swaptions and interest rate caps and floors, may result
in the future exchange of interest payments if market interest rates reach
certain levels. At December 31, 1998 and 1997, the total notional amount of such
agreements with off-balance-sheet risk was $2.1 billion and $3.1 billion,
respectively, for the Automotive, Electronics and Other Operations. At December
31, 1998 and 1997, the Financing and Insurance Operations held such agreements
with off-balance-sheet risk with notional amount totaling $20.0 billion and
$26.4 billion, respectively.
Interest rate swaps used to hedge an underlying debt obligation are not
marked to market, but are used to adjust interest expense recognized over the
life of the underlying debt agreement. Gains and losses on terminated interest
rate swaps are deferred and recognized as yield adjustments on the underlying
debt. The Automotive, Electronics and Other Operations' unamortized net gains on
interest rate swaps totaled approximately $6 million and $7 million at December
31, 1998 and 1997, respectively. Unamortized net gains on interest rate swaps
for the Financing and Insurance Operations totaled approximately $37 million and
$33 million at December 31, 1998 and 1997, respectively. Written options,
including those embedded in interest rate swaps, written interest rate caps,
interest rate collars, written swaptions and interest rate swaps that do not
meet settlement accounting criteria are marked to market with related gains and
losses recognized in income on a current basis.
Mortgage Contracts
GMAC has also entered into contracts to purchase and sell mortgages at
specific future dates and has entered into certain exchange traded futures and
option contracts to reduce exposure to interest rate risk. At December 31, 1998
and 1997, commitments to sell mortgage loans and securities totaled $6.2 billion
and $3.9 billion, respectively, and commitments to purchase or originate
mortgage loans totaled $5.2 billion and $4.1 billion, respectively. GMAC's
exchange traded futures and option contracts, which are used to hedge mortgage
loans held for sale, had notional values of $5.0 billion and $2.2 billion at
December 31, 1998 and 1997, respectively. Gains and losses on derivatives,
including exchange traded futures and option contracts, used to hedge interest
rate risk associated with rate locked funding commitments and mortgage loans
held for sale, are deferred and considered in the reporting of the underlying
mortgages on a lower of cost or market basis.
The notional values of derivatives used to hedge price and interest rate
risk associated with mortgage related securities totaled $9.7 billion and $1.4
billion at December 31, 1998 and 1997, respectively. Gains and losses associated
with these instruments are recognized in the current period on a marked to
market basis. Derivatives used to hedge mortgage servicing rights had notional
values of $65.1 billion and $8 billion at December 31, 1998 and 1997,
respectively. Gains and losses on such contracts are recorded as an adjustment
to amortization expense.
GMAC has also entered into interest rate swaps in an effort to stabilize
short-term borrowing costs and to maintain a minimum return on certain mortgage
loans held for investment. Amounts received or paid under such interest rate
swaps are recorded as an adjustment to interest expense. At December 31, 1998
and 1997, the notional values of such instruments totaled $100 million and $264
million, respectively.
Credit Risk
The forward contracts, swaps, options and lines of credit previously
discussed contain an element of risk that the counterparties may be unable to
meet the terms of the agreements. However, GM minimizes such risk exposure for
forward contracts, swaps and options by limiting the counterparties to major
international banks and financial institutions that meet established credit
guidelines and by limiting the amount of its risk exposure with any one bank or
financial institution. Management also reduces its credit risk for unused lines
of credit by applying the same credit policies in making commitments as it does
for extending loans. Management does not expect to incur any losses as a result
of counterparty default. GM generally does not require or place collateral for
these financial instruments, except for the lines of credit it extends.
GM has business activities with customers, dealers and associates around the
world. The Corporation's receivables from, and guarantees to, such parties are
well diversified, and when warranted, are secured by collateral. Consequently,
in management's opinion, no significant concentration of credit risk exists for
GM.
II-48
GENERAL MOTORS CORPORATION AND SUBSIDIARIES
NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS - continued
NOTE 12. Fair Value of Financial Instruments
The estimated fair value of financial instruments has been determined using
available market information or other appropriate valuation methodologies.
However, considerable judgment is required in interpreting market data to
develop estimates of fair value; therefore, the estimates are not necessarily
indicative of the amounts that could be realized or would be paid in a current
market exchange. The effect of using different market assumptions and/or
estimation methodologies may be material to the estimated fair value amounts.
Fair value information presented herein is based on information available at
December 31, 1998 and 1997. Although management is not aware of any factors that
would significantly affect the estimated fair value amounts, such amounts have
not been updated since those dates and, therefore, the current estimates of fair
value at dates subsequent to December 31, 1998 and 1997 may differ significantly
from these amounts.
Book and estimated fair values of financial instruments, for which it is
practicable to estimate fair value, were as follows (in millions):
December 31,
------------
1998 1997
---- ----
Book Fair Book Fair
Value Value Value Value
----- ----- ----- -----
Automotive, Electronics and Other Operations
Assets
Cash and marketable securities $11,130 $11,130 $14,511 $14,511
Accounts and notes receivable
(less allowances) $5,478 $5,478 $5,352 $5,352
Other assets $2,710 $2,729 $2,287 $2,279
Liabilities
Accounts payable $13,479 $13,479 $12,461 $12,461
Long-term debt and loans payable
Payable within one year $1,526 $1,526 $656 $656
Payable beyond one year $7,217 $7,621 $5,695 $6,147
Other liabilities $590 $651 $593 $626
Preferred securities of
subsidiary trusts (Note 16) $220 $226 $222 $233
Financing and Insurance Operations
Assets
Cash and investments in
securities $8,894 $8,894 $8,473 $8,473
Finance receivables - net $70,258 $70,457 $58,219 $58,667
Accounts and notes receivable
(less allowances) $3,797 $3,797 $2,042 $2,042
Other assets $11,441 $11,465 $8,746 $8,762
Liabilities
Accounts payable $6,492 $6,492 $3,321 $3,321
Debt
Payable within one year $60,052 $60,098 $50,399 $50,440
Payable beyond one year $45,357 $46,600 $36,277 $37,049
The prior tables exclude the book values and estimated fair values of
financial instrument derivatives which were as follows (in millions):
Fair Value of Open Contracts at
December 31,
------------
1998 1997
---- ----
Asset Liability Asset Liability
Position Position Position Position
-------- -------- -------- --------
Automotive, Electronics and Other Operations (1)
- ------------------------------------------------
Foreign exchange forward contracts (2) $126 $107 $78 $83
Foreign exchange options $71 $10 $46 $7
Interest rate swaps $34 $38 $27 $50
Interest rate options $- $1 $- $2
II-49
GENERAL MOTORS CORPORATION AND SUBSIDIARIES
NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS - continued
NOTE 12. Fair Value of Financial Instruments (continued)
Financing and Insurance Operations (3)
- --------------------------------------
Foreign exchange forward contracts (4) $499 $161 $149 $326
Interest rate swaps $180 $93 $93 $49
Interest rate options $- $- $2 $-
Mortgage contracts $344 $55 $53 $30
- ---------------------
(1)The related asset (liability) recorded on the balance sheet for foreign
exchange forward contracts, foreign exchange options, interest rate swaps
and interest rate options totaled $22 million, $62 million, $(7) million and
$(1) million, respectively, at December 31, 1998 and $33 million, $43
million, $(17) million and $(2) million, respectively, at December 31, 1997.
(2)Foreign exchange forward contracts included certain derivatives with both
foreign exchange and interest rate exposures which had a fair value of $54
million and $17 million at December 31, 1998 and 1997, respectively.
(3)The related asset recorded on the balance sheet for foreign exchange forward
contracts and interest rate swaps totaled $233 million and $14 million,
respectively, at December 31, 1998. The related asset (liability) recorded on
the balance sheet for foreign exchange forward contracts, interest rate
swaps and interest rate options totaled $(111) million, $3 million and $1
million, respectively, at December 31, 1997. The related asset recorded on
the balance sheet for mortgage contracts was $284 million and $20 million at
December 31, 1998 and 1997, respectively.
(4)Foreign exchange forward contracts included certain derivatives with both
foreign exchange and interest rate exposures which had a fair value of $154
million and $(194) million at December 31, 1998 and 1997, respectively.
The following methods and assumptions were used to estimate the fair value of
each class of financial instrument:
Cash and Marketable Securities
The fair value of cash equivalents and marketable securities was determined
principally based on quoted market prices.
Finance Receivables
The fair value was estimated by discounting the future cash flows using
applicable spreads to approximate current rates applicable to each category of
finance receivables. The carrying value of wholesale receivables and other
receivables whose interest rates adjust on a short-term basis with applicable
market indices (generally the prime rate) were assumed to approximate fair value
either due to their short maturities or due to the interest rate adjustment
feature.
Accounts and Notes Receivable and Accounts Payable
For receivables and payables with short maturities the book values
approximate fair values.
Other Assets and Accrued Expenses and Other Liabilities
Other assets reported at December 31, 1998 and 1997 include various financial
instruments (e.g., long-term receivables and certain investments) that have fair
values based on discounted cash flows, market quotations, and other appropriate
valuation techniques. The fair values of retained subordinated interests in
trusts and excess servicing assets (net of deferred costs) were derived by
discounting expected cash flows using current market rates. Estimated values of
Industrial Development Bonds, included in accrued expenses and other
liabilities, were based on quoted market prices for the same or similar issues.
Debt and Loans Payable
The fair value of the debt payable within one year was determined by using
quoted market prices, if available, or by calculating the estimated value of
each bank loan, note, or debenture in the portfolio at the applicable rate in
effect. Commercial paper, master notes and demand notes have an original term
of less than 90 days and; therefore, the carrying amounts of these liabilities
were considered their fair values. Debt payable beyond one year has an estimated
fair value based on quoted market prices for the same or similar issues or based
on the current rates offered to GM for debt of similar remaining maturities.
Foreign Exchange Forward Contracts and Options
The fair value of foreign exchange forward contracts was determined by using
current exchange rates. The fair value of foreign exchange options was estimated
using pricing models with indicative quotes obtained for the market variables.
II-50
GENERAL MOTORS CORPORATION AND SUBSIDIARIES
NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS - continued
NOTE 12. Fair Value of Financial Instruments (concluded)
Preferred Securities of Subsidiary Trusts
The fair value of the GM-obligated mandatorily redeemable preferred
securities of subsidiary trusts (Note 16) was determined based on quoted market
prices.
Interest Rate Swaps and Options
The fair value of interest rate swaps, including contracts with optionality,
was estimated using pricing models based upon current market interest rates.
Exchange traded options are valued at quoted market prices.
Mortgage Contracts
The fair value of mortgage contracts was estimated based upon the amount
that would be received or paid to terminate the contracts based on market prices
of similar financial instruments and current rates for mortgage loans.
Unused Lines of Credit
Because loans extended under these commitments are at market interest rates,
there is no significant fair value position related to the outstanding
commitments.
NOTE 13. Pensions and Other Postretirement Benefits
GM has a number of defined benefit pension plans covering substantially all
employees. Plans covering U.S. and Canadian represented employees generally
provide benefits of negotiated, stated amounts for each year of service as well
as significant supplemental benefits for employees who retire with 30 years of
service before normal retirement age. The benefits provided by the plans
covering U.S. and Canadian salaried employees and employees in certain foreign
locations are generally based on years of service and salary history. GM also
has certain nonqualified pension plans covering executives that are based on
targeted wage replacement percentages and are unfunded.
The measurement dates used for the principal U.S. pension plans of the
Corporation and Hughes were December 31 and December 1, respectively. For
non-U.S. pension plans, the measurement dates were December 1 for Canadian plans
and October 1 for other foreign plans.
Pension plan assets are primarily invested in U.S. Government obligations,
equity and fixed income securities, commingled pension trust funds, insurance
contracts, the Corporation's $1-2/3 par value common stock (valued as of the
1998 measurement date at $56 million) and EDS common stock (valued as of the
1998 measurement date at $5.3 billion). In March 1995, under the terms of an
agreement between the Corporation and the Pension Benefit Guarantee Corporation
(PBGC), the Corporation contributed to the GM Hourly-Rate Employees Pension Plan
(Hourly Plan) 173.2 million shares of Class E common stock valued at $6.3
billion on such date. Subsequent to the split-off of EDS, the Class E stock held
by the Hourly Plan was exchanged for EDS common stock. The trustees for the
Hourly Plan have, from time-to-time, sold shares of former Class E common stock
and EDS common stock, with the effect of reducing the number of shares of EDS
common stock held by the Hourly Plan.
GM's funding policy with respect to its qualified pension plans is to
contribute annually not less than the minimum required by applicable law and
regulations. GM made pension contributions to the U.S. plans of $1.2 billion in
1998, $1.5 billion in 1997 and $800 million in 1996.
Additionally, GM maintains hourly and salaried benefit plans that provide
postretirement medical, dental, vision and life insurance to most U.S. retirees
and eligible dependents. The cost of such benefits is recognized in the
consolidated financial statements during the period employees provide service to
GM. Postretirement plan assets in GM's VEBA trust are invested primarily in
fixed income securities.
Certain of the Corporation's non-U.S. subsidiaries have postretirement plans,
although most participants are covered by government-sponsored or administered
programs. The cost of such programs generally is not significant to GM.
II-51
GENERAL MOTORS CORPORATION AND SUBSIDIARIES
NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS - continued
NOTE 13. Pensions and Other Postretirement Benefits (continued)
U.S. Plans Non-U. S. Plans
Pension Benefits Pension Benefits Other Benefits
---------------- ---------------- --------------
1998 1997 1998 1997 1998 1997
---- ---- ---- ---- ---- ----
(in millions)
Change in benefit obligations
Benefit obligation at beginning
of year $73,570 $72,501 $9,824 $9,526 $44,294 $41,387
Service cost 1,270 1,332 214 191 663 639
Interest cost 4,974 5,261 643 633 3,113 3,128
Plan participants'
contributions 43 69 28 25 31 31
Amendments 208 25 81 - - -
Actuarial losses 1,973 4,443 92 710 1,622 1,819
Benefits paid (5,196) (5,408) (349) (331) (2,287) (2,174)
Curtailment charges
and other 121 (4,653) (250) (930) (90) (536)
------ ------ ------ ----- ------ ------
Benefit obligation at
end of year 76,963 73,570 10,283 9,824 47,346 44,294
------ ------ ------ ----- ------ ------
Change in plan assets
Fair value of plan assets
at beginning of year 72,280 71,295 6,075 5,915 3,000 -
Actual return on plan assets 6,438 10,882 328 756 249 -
Employer contributions 1,151 1,535 206 71 1,700 3,000
Plan participants'
contributions 43 69 28 25 - -
Benefits paid (5,196) (5,408) (349) (331 (375) -
Settlement charges and other 291 (6,093) (312) (361) - -
------ ------ ------ ----- ------ ------
Fair value of plan assets
at end of year 75,007 72,280 5,976 6,075 4,574 3,000
------ ------ ----- ----- ----- -----
Funded status (1,956) (1,290) (4,307) (3,749 (42,772) (41,294)
Unrecognized actuarial loss 10,368 8,632 1,880 1,773 2,209 689
Unrecognized prior service
cost 7,064 8,103 764 824 (448) (563)
Unrecognized transition
(asset) obligation (64) (105) 48 10 - -
------ ------ ------ ----- ------ ------
Net amount recognized $15,412 $15,340 $(1,615) $(1,142)$(41,011)$(41,168)
======= ======= ======= ======= ======== ========
Amounts recognized in the
consolidated balance
sheets consist of:
Prepaid benefit cost $6,448 $6,202 $898 $868 $ - $ -
Accrued benefit
liability (4,361) (3,595) (3,814) (3,463) (41,011) (41,168)
Intangible asset 5,961 7,071 504 602 - -
Accumulated other
comprehensive
income 7,364 5,662 797 851 - -
------ ------ ------ ----- ------ ------
Net amount recognized $15,412 $15,340 $(1,615) $(1,142)$(41,011)$(41,168)
======= ======= ======= ======= ======== ========
The projected benefit obligation, accumulated benefit obligation, and fair
value of plan assets for the pension plans with accumulated benefit obligations
in excess of plan assets were $56.7 billion, $56.0 billion and $47.8 billion,
respectively, as of December 31, 1998 and $54.4 billion, $53.7 billion and
$46.7 billion, respectively, as of December 31, 1997.
U.S. Plans Non-U. S. Plans
Pension Benefits Pension Benefits Other Benefits
---------------- ---------------- --------------
1998 1997 1996 1998 1997 1996 1998 1997 1996
---- ---- ---- ---- ---- ---- ---- ---- ----
(in millions)
Components of expense
Service cost $1,270 $1,332 $1,208 $214 $191 $185 $663 $639 $668
Interest cost 4,974 5,261 4,777 643 633 653 3,113 3,128 2,980
Expected return on
plan assets (6,815) (6,630) (6,283 (516) (524 (487 (286) - -
Amortization of prio
service cost 1,173 1,170 824 99 99 100 (116) (116) (116)
Amortization of
transition asset (44) (85) (63) (17) (20) (18) - - -
Recognized net actuarial
loss 331 308 675 75 60 57 97 72 43
Curtailments, settlements
and other 207 53 69 48 2 158 - (2) (3)
----- ----- ----- --- --- --- ----- ----- -----
Net expense $1,096 $1,409 $1,207 $546 $441 $648 $3,471 $3,721 $3,572
====== ====== ====== ==== ==== ==== ====== ====== ======
Weighted-average assumptions
Discount rate 6.8% 7.0% 7.5% 6.4% 6.8% 7.3% 6.7% 7.2% 7.8%
Expected return on
plan assets 10.0% 10.0% 10.0% 9.2% 9.2% 9.8% 10.0% - -
Rate of compensation
increase 5.0% 5.0% 5.0% 3.5% 4.1% 4.2% 4.4% 4.4% 4.4%
II-52
GENERAL MOTORS CORPORATION AND SUBSIDIARIES
NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS - continued
NOTE 13. Pensions and Other Postretirement Benefits (concluded)
For measurement purposes, a 6 percent annual rate of increase in the per
capita cost of covered health care benefits was assumed for 1999. The rate was
assumed to decrease on a linear basis to 5 percent through 2004 and remain at
that level thereafter.
A one percentage point increase in the assumed health care trend rate would
have increased the Accumulated Projected Benefit Obligation (APBO) by $5.5
billion at December 31, 1998 and increased the aggregate service and interest
cost components of non-pension postretirement benefit expense for 1998 by $484
million. A one percentage point decrease would have decreased the APBO by $4.6
billion and decreased the aggregate service and interest cost components of
non-pension postretirement benefit expense for 1998 by $377 million. A one
percentage point increase in the weighted-average discount rate would have
resulted in a $4.8 billion decrease in the APBO at December 31, 1998.
GM has disclosed in the consolidated financial statements certain amounts
associated with estimated future postretirement benefits other than pensions and
characterized such amounts as "accumulated postretirement benefit obligations,"
"liabilities," or "obligations." Notwithstanding the recording of such amounts
and the use of these terms, GM does not admit or otherwise acknowledge that such
amounts or existing postretirement benefit plans of GM (other than pensions)
represent legally enforceable liabilities of GM.
NOTE 14. Accrued Expenses, Other Liabilities and Deferred Income Taxes
Automotive, Electronics and Other Operations
Accrued expenses, other liabilities and deferred income taxes included the
following (in millions):
December 31,
------------
1998 1997
---- ----
Warranties, dealer and customer allowances,
claims, and discounts $14,603 $13,992
Deferred revenue 8,548 7,799
Payrolls and employee benefits (excludes postemployment) 6,884 7,794
Unpaid losses under self-insurance programs 1,774 1,631
Taxes, other than income taxes 1,067 981
Interest 1,545 1,235
Income taxes 449 1,023
Deferred income taxes 2,973 2,923
Postemployment benefits 3,820 4,038
Other 10,589 11,132
------ ------
Total accrued expenses, other liabilities
and deferred income taxes $52,252 $52,548
======= =======
Financing and Insurance Operations
Deferred income taxes and other liabilities included the following
(in millions):
December 31,
------------
1998 1997
---- ----
Unpaid insurance losses, loss adjustment
expenses and unearned insurance premiums $3,918 $3,929
Postemployment benefits 704 672
Income taxes 552 321
Deferred income taxes 2,910 2,578
Interest 1,276 1,118
Other 301 344
------ ------
Total deferred income taxes and other liabilities $9,661 $8,962
====== ======
NOTE 15. Commitments and Contingent Matters
Commitments
GM had the following minimum commitments under noncancelable operating leases
having terms in excess of one year primarily for real property: 1999-$688
million; 2000-$668 million; 2001-$640 million; 2002-$620 million; 2003-$473
million; and $758 million in 2004 and thereafter. Certain of the leases contain
escalation clauses and renewal or purchase options. Rental expenses under
operating leases were $930 million in 1998, $925 million in 1997 and $853
million in 1996.
GM sponsors a credit card program, entitled the GM Card program, that offers
rebates that can be applied against the purchase or lease of GM vehicles. The
amount of rebates available to qualified cardholders at December 31, 1998 and
1997 was $3.7 billion and $3.5 billion, respectively. Provisions for GM Card
rebates are recorded as reductions in revenues at the time of vehicle sale.
II-53
GENERAL MOTORS CORPORATION AND SUBSIDIARIES
NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS - continued
NOTE 15. Commitments and Contingent Matters (concluded)
The 1996 Restructuring Agreement between GM and Saab's other owners (Investor
A.B.) includes certain provisions and options which may impact the relative
ownership interests of the parties involved. The agreement gives GM and Adam
Opel the right to purchase up to 100% of Investor A.B.'s interest in Saab during
1999 and 2000. Investor A.B. has the right to sell up to 50% of its present
holding in Saab to GM and Adam Opel in 2000. GM currently maintains a 50%
ownership in Saab.
In December 1998, Hughes agreed to acquire all of the outstanding capital
stock of United States Satellite Broadcasting Company, Inc. (USSB). USSB
provides direct-to-home premium satellite programming in conjunction with
DIRECTV's basic programming service. USSB launched its service in June 1994 and,
as of December 31, 1998, had more than two million subscribers nationwide. The
purchase price, consisting of cash and GM Class H common stock, will be
determined at closing based upon an agreed-upon formula and will not exceed $1.6
billion in the aggregate. Subject to certain limitations in the merger
agreement, USSB shareholders will be entitled to elect to receive cash or shares
of GM Class H common stock. The amount of cash to be paid in the merger cannot
be less than 30% of the aggregate purchase price or greater than 50% of the
aggregate purchase price with the remaining consideration consisting of GM Class
H common stock. The merger, which is subject to USSB shareholder approval and
the receipt of appropriate regulatory approvals, is expected to close in early
to mid-1999.
Contingent Matters
In connection with the 1997 spin-off of Hughes Defense and its subsequent
merger with Raytheon, a process was agreed to among GM, Hughes and Raytheon for
resolving disputes that might arise in connection with post-closing adjustments
called for by the terms of the merger agreement. Such adjustments might call for
a cash payment between Hughes and Raytheon. A dispute currently exists regarding
the post-closing adjustments which Hughes and Raytheon have proposed to one
another. In an attempt to resolve the dispute, Hughes gave notice to Raytheon to
commence the arbitration process. Raytheon responded by filing an action in
Delaware Chancery Court which seeks to enjoin the arbitration as premature. It
is possible that the ultimate resolution of the post-closing financial
adjustment provision of the merger agreement may result in Hughes making a
payment to Raytheon that could be material to Hughes. However, the amount of any
payment that either party might be required to make to the other is not
determinable at this time. Hughes intends to vigorously pursue resolution of the
dispute through the arbitration process, opposing the adjustments Raytheon seeks
and seeking the payment from Raytheon that it has proposed.
GM is subject to potential liability under government regulations and various
claims and legal actions which are pending or may be asserted against them. Some
of the pending actions purport to be class actions. The aggregate ultimate
liability of GM under these government regulations and under these claims and
actions, was not determinable at December 31, 1998. After discussion with
counsel, it is the opinion of management that such liability is not expected to
have a material adverse effect on the Corporation's consolidated financial
statements.
Note 16. Preferred Securities of Subsidiary Trusts
General Motors - Obligated Mandatorily Redeemable Preferred Securities of
Subsidiary Trusts
In July 1997, the General Motors Capital Trust D (Series D Trust) issued
approximately $79 million of its 8.67% Trust Originated Preferred Securitiessm
(TOPrSsm) Series D, (Series D Preferred Securities), in a one-for-one exchange
for 3,055,255 of the outstanding GM Series D 7.92% Depositary Shares, each
representing one-fourth of a share of GM Series D Preference Stock, $0.10 par
value per share. In addition, the General Motors Capital Trust G (Series G
Trust) issued approximately $143 million of its 9.87% TOPrS, Series G (Series G
Preferred Securities), in a one-for-one exchange for 5,064,489 of the
outstanding GM Series G 9.12% Depositary Shares, each representing one-fourth of
a share of GM Series G Preference Stock, $0.10 par value per share.
Concurrently with the exchanges and the related purchases by GM from the
Series D and Series G Trusts (Trusts) of the common securities of such Trusts,
which represent approximately 3 percent of the total assets of such Trusts, GM
issued to the wholly-owned Trusts, as the Series D Trust's sole assets its 8.67%
Junior Subordinated Deferrable Interest Debentures, Series D, due July 1, 2012
and as the Series G Trust's sole assets, its 9.87% Junior Subordinated
Deferrable Interest Debentures, Series G, due July 1, 2012 (the "Series D
Debentures" and "Series G Debentures" or collectively the "Debentures"), having
aggregate principal amounts equal to the aggregate stated liquidation amounts of
the Series D and Series G Preferred Securities and the related common
securities, respectively ($79 million with respect to the Series D Debentures
and $131 million with respect to the Series G Debentures).
II-54
GENERAL MOTORS CORPORATION AND SUBSIDIARIES
NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS - continued
Note 16. Preferred Securities of Subsidiary Trusts (concluded)
The Series D Debentures are redeemable, in whole or in part, at GM's option
on or after August 1, 1999, at a redemption price equal to 100% of the
outstanding principal amount of the Series D Debentures plus accrued and unpaid
interest, or, under certain circumstances, prior to August 1, 1999, at a
redemption price equal to 105% of the outstanding principal of the Series D
Debentures from the Series D expiration date through July 31, 1998, declining
ratably on each August 1 thereafter to 100% on August 1, 1999, plus accrued and
unpaid interest. The Series D Preferred Securities will be redeemed upon the
maturity or earlier redemption of the Series D Debentures.
The Series G Debentures are redeemable, in whole or in part, at GM's option
on or after January 1, 2001, at a redemption price equal to 100% of the
outstanding principal amount of the Series G Debentures plus accrued and unpaid
interest, or, under certain circumstances, prior to January 1, 2001, at a
redemption price equal to 114% of the outstanding principal of the Series G
Debentures from the Series G expiration date through December 31, 1997,
declining ratably on each January 1 thereafter to 100% on January 1, 2001, plus
accrued and unpaid interest. The Series G Preferred Securities will be redeemed
upon the maturity or earlier redemption of the Series G Debentures.
GM has guaranteed the payment in full to the holders of the Series D and
Series G Preferred Securities (collectively the "Preferred Securities") of all
distributions and other payments on the Preferred Securities to the extent not
paid by the Trusts only if and to the extent that the Trusts have assets
therefore, GM has made payments of interest or principal on the related
Debentures. These guarantees, when taken together with GM's obligations under
the Preferred Securities Guarantees, the Debentures, and the Indentures relating
thereto and the obligations under the Declaration of Trust of the Trusts,
including the obligations to pay certain costs and expenses of the Trusts,
constitute full and unconditional guarantees by GM of each Trust's obligations
under its Preferred Securities.
sm "Trust Originated Preferred Securities" and "TOPrS" are service trademarks of
Merrill Lynch & Co.
II-55
GENERAL MOTORS CORPORATION AND SUBSIDIARIES
NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS - continued
NOTE 17. Stockholders' Equity
The following table presents changes in capital stock for the period from
January 1, 1996 to December 31, 1998 (in millions):
Common Stocks
---------------------------------------- Total
Preference $1-2/3 Capital
Stocks(a) par value Class H(b) Class E Class H(c) Stock
--------- --------- ---------- -------- ---------- -----
Balance at January 1, 1996 $ 1 $1,255 $ - $44 $10 $1,310
Shares reacquired - (8) - - - (8)
Shares issued - 14 - - - 14
Series C conversion - - - 5 - 5
EDS split-off - - - (49) - (49)
--- ----- --- --- --- -----
Balance at December 31, 1996 1 1,261 - - 10 1,272
Shares reacquired - (122) - - - (122)
Shares issued - 17 - - - 17
Recapitalization of
Class H Common Stock - - 10 - (10) -
--- ----- --- --- --- -----
Balance at December 31, 1997 1 1,156 10 - - 1,167
Shares reacquired - (75) - - - (75)
Shares issued - 11 1 - - 12
--- ----- --- --- --- -----
Balance at December 31, 1998 $ 1 $1,092 $11 $ - $ - $1,104
=== ===== === === === =====
- ------------------------
(a)The following describes the Corporation's preference stocks (in millions
except par value, stated value, and per share amounts):
Preference Stock, $0.10 par value (authorized 100 shares):
- Series B 9-1/8% Depositary Shares, stated value $25 per share, redeemable
at Corporation option on or after January 1, 1999; issued at December 31,
1998, 20 shares equivalent to 5 shares of nonconvertible Series B 9-1/8%
Preference Stock, stated value $100 per share.
- Series C Depositary Shares, liquidation preference $50 per share.
- Series D 7.92% Depositary Shares, stated value $25 per share, redeemable at
Corporation option on or after August 1, 1999; outstanding at December 31,
1998, 3 shares equivalent to .75 shares of Series D 7.92% Preference Stock
(see Note 16).
- Series G 9.12% Depositary Shares, stated value $25 per share, redeemable at
Corporation option on or after January 1, 2001; outstanding at December 31,
1998, 5 shares, equivalent to 1.25 shares of Series G 9.12% Preference
Stock (see Note 16).
(b)Subsequent to its recapitalization on December 17, 1997.
(c)Prior to its recapitalization on December 17, 1997.
II-56
GENERAL MOTORS CORPORATION AND SUBSIDIARIES
NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS - continued
NOTE 17. Stockholders' Equity (concluded)
Common Stocks
The voting and liquidation rights of $1-2/3 par value common stock are one
vote per share and one liquidation unit per share. The voting and liquidation
rights of the recapitalized Class H common stock are 0.6 votes per share and 0.6
liquidation units per share.
The liquidation rights of the $1-2/3 par value and Class H common stocks are
subject to certain adjustments if outstanding common stock is subdivided, by
stock split or otherwise, or if shares of one class of common stock are issued
as a dividend to holders of another class of common stock. Holders of Class H
common stock have no direct rights in the equity or assets of Hughes, but rather
have rights in the equity and assets of GM (which includes 100% of the stock of
Hughes).
The outstanding shares of Class H common stock may be recapitalized as shares
of $1-2/3 par value common stock at any time after December 31, 2002, at the
sole discretion of the GM Board of Directors (GM Board), or automatically, if at
any time the Corporation should sell, liquidate, or otherwise dispose of 80% or
more of the business of Hughes, based on fair market value of the assets, both
tangible and intangible, of Hughes as of the date that such proposed transaction
is approved by the GM Board. In the event of any recapitalization, all
outstanding shares of Class H common stock will automatically be converted into
the Corporation's $1-2/3 par value common stock at an exchange rate that would
provide Class H common stockholders with that number of shares of $1-2/3 par
value common stock that would have a value equal to 120% of the value of their
Class H common stock, on such date. A recapitalization of the type described in
the prior sentence would occur if any of the triggering events took place unless
the holders of GM common stock (including the holders of $1-2/3 par value common
stock and holders of the Class H common stock voting separately as individual
classes) vote to approve an alternative proposal from the GM Board.
Common Stock Repurchases
During 1998, GM used $2.6 billion to acquire 38 million shares of $1-2/3 par
value common stock, which completed the second $2.5 billion stock repurchase
program announced in August of 1997 and represented 33 percent of the $4.0
billion stock repurchase program announced in February 1998. Due to work
stoppages at various GM components plants, stock repurchases were suspended as
part of GM's cash conservation initiatives. GM also used approximately $427
million to repurchase shares of $1-2/3 par value common stock for certain
employee benefit plans.
Preference Stocks
During 1996, approximately 45 million shares of Class E common stock were
issued upon conversion of approximately 3 million shares of Series C Preference
Stock (represented by depositary shares). The remaining 6,784 shares of Series C
Preference Stock were redeemed on February 22, 1996.
Other Comprehensive Income
The changes in the components of other comprehensive income (loss) are
reported net of income taxes, as follows (in millions):
Years Ended December 31,
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
1998 1997 1996
------------------------- --------------------------- --------------------------
Pre-tax Tax Exp. Net Pre-tax Tax Exp. Net Pre-tax Tax Exp. Net
Amount (Credit) Amount Amount (Credit) Amount Amount (Credit) Amount
------ -------- ------ ------ -------- ------ ------ -------- ------
Foreign currency translation
adjustments $(262) $7 $(269) $(1,274) $(499) $(775) $(614) $(278) $(336)
Unrealized gain (loss)
on securities:
Unrealized holding
gain (loss) 38 (14) 52 272 114 158 (15) (8) (7)
Reclassification
adjustment (115) (40) (75) (118) (41) (77) (96) (33) (63)
---- --- --- ---- --- --- --- --- ---
Net unrealized
(loss) gain (77) (54) (23) 154 73 81 (111) (41) (70)
--- --- --- --- -- -- ---- --- ---
Minimum pension
liability adjustment (1,657) (630) (1,027) (906) (334) (572) 2,013 767 1,246
------ ---- ------ ---- ---- ---- ----- --- -----
Other comprehensive
(loss) income $(1,996) $(677) $(1,319) $(2,026) $(760)$(1,266) $1,288 $448 $840
====== ==== ====== ====== ==== ====== ===== === ===
II-57
GENERAL MOTORS CORPORATION AND SUBSIDIARIES
NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS - continued
NOTE 18. Earnings Per Share Attributable to Common Stocks
Earnings per share attributable to each class of GM common stock was
determined based on the attribution of earnings to each such class of common
stock for the period divided by the weighted-average number of common shares for
each such class outstanding during the period. Diluted earnings per share
attributable to each class of GM common stock considers the impact of potential
common shares, unless the inclusion of the potential common shares would have an
antidilutive effect.
The assumed exercise of stock options has no effect on Class H common stock
earnings per share, because to the extent that shares of Class H common stock
deemed to be outstanding would increase, such increased shares would also
increase the numerator of the fraction used to determine Available Separate
Consolidated Net Income (ASCNI).
The attribution of earnings to each class of common stock was as follows (in
millions):
Years Ended December 31,
------------------------
1998 1997 1996
---- ---- ----
Earnings attributable to common stocks
$1-2/3 par value
Continuing operations $2,821 $6,276 $4,589
Discontinued operations - - (5)
----- ----- -----
Earnings attributable to
$1-2/3 par value $2,821 $6,276 $4,584
== = = ====== ====== ======
Income from discontinued operation
attributable to Class E $ - $ - $15
--- --- ---
Earnings attributable to Class H
(prior to its recapitalization
on December 17, 1997) $ - $322 $283
--- ---- ----
Earnings attributable to Class H
(subsequent to its recapitalization
on December 17, 1997) $72 $2 $ -
--- -- ---
Earnings attributable to $1-2/3 par value common stock for the period
represent the earnings attributable to all GM common stocks for the period,
reduced by the ASCNI of EDS (Note 1), former Hughes, and Hughes for the period.
During the period that EDS was an indirect wholly-owned subsidiary of the
Corporation, the earnings attributable to Class E common stock for the period
represented the ASCNI of EDS for the period. The ASCNI of EDS was determined
quarterly in amounts equal to the separate consolidated net income of EDS for
each respective quarter, excluding the effects of purchase accounting
adjustments relating to the Corporation's acquisition of EDS for each such
period, multiplied by a fraction, the numerator of which represented the
weighted-average number of shares of Class E common stock outstanding during the
period. The weighted-average number of shares of Class E common stock
outstanding for 1996 reflects shares outstanding through June 30, 1996.
Earnings attributable to Class H common stock represented the ASCNI of Hughes
and former Hughes. The ASCNI of Hughes and former Hughes was determined
quarterly in amounts equal to the separate consolidated net income of Hughes and
former Hughes for each respective quarter, excluding the effects of purchase
accounting adjustments arising at the time of the Corporation's acquisition of
Hughes Aircraft Company (HAC), calculated for such period and multiplied by a
fraction, the numerator of which was a number equal to the weighted-average
number of shares of Class H common stock outstanding during the quarter (106
million, 103 million and 99 million in the fourth quarters of 1998, 1997 and
1996, respectively) and the denominator of which was 400 million during the
fourth quarters of 1998, 1997, and 1996.
Earnings attributable to Class H common stock for the period subsequent to
the recapitalization of Class H common stock for 1997 represent the ASCNI of
Hughes for the period December 18, 1997 through December 31, 1997, excluding the
effects of purchase accounting adjustments arising at the time of the
Corporation's acquisition of HAC, calculated for such period and multiplied by a
fraction, the numerator of which was a number equal to the weighted-average
number of shares of Class H common stock outstanding during the period (104
million) and the denominator of which was 400 million.
The denominators used in determining the ASCNI of EDS and former Hughes were
adjusted from time-to-time as deemed appropriate by the GM Board to reflect
subdivisions or combinations of the Class E common stock and Class H common
stock, respectively, and to reflect certain transfers of capital to or from EDS
and former Hughes, respectively. The denominator used in determining the ASCNI
of Hughes may be adjusted from time-to-time as deemed appropriate by the GM
Board to reflect subdivisions or combinations of the Class H common stock and to
reflect certain transfers of capital to or from Hughes. The GM Board's
discretion to make such adjustments is limited by criteria set forth in the
Corporation's Restated Certificate of Incorporation.
II-58
GENERAL MOTORS CORPORATION AND SUBSIDIARIES
NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS - continued
NOTE 18. Earnings Per Share Attributable to Common Stocks (concluded)
The reconciliation of the amounts used in the basic and diluted earnings per
share computations for income from continuing operations was as follows (in
millions except per share amounts):
Class H Common Stock - Class H Common Stock -
Prior to its recapitalization Subsequent to its recapitalization
$1-2/3 Par Value Common Stock on December 17,1997 on December 17, 1997
----------------------------- ------------------- --------------------
Per Share Per Share Per Share
Income Shares Amount ASCNI Shares Amount ASCNI Shares Amount
------ ------ ------ ----- ------ ------ ----- ------ ------
Year ended December 31, 1998
Income from continuing
operations $2,884 $72
Less:Dividends on
preference stocks 63 -
----- --
Basic EPS
Income from continuing
operations available to
common stockholders 2,821 663 $4.26 72 105 $0.68
==== ====
Effect of Dilutive Securities
Assumed exercise of
dilutive stock options (3) 11 3 4
----- --- -- ---
Diluted EPS
Adjusted income from
continuing operations
available to common
stockholders $2,818 674 $4.18 $75 109 $0.68
===== === ==== == === ====
Year ended December 31, 1997
Income from continuing
operations $6,374 $322 $2
Less:Premium on exchange
of preference stocks 26 - -
Dividends on preference
stocks 72 - -
----- --- --
Basic EPS
Income from continuing
operations vailable to
common stockholders 6,276 721 $8.70 322 101 $3.17 2 104 $0.02
==== ==== ====
Effect of Dilutive Securities
Assumed exercise of dilutive
stock options (11) 6 11 4 - 3
-- --- --- --- -- ---
Diluted EPS
Adjusted income from
continuing operations
available to common
stockholders $6,265 727 $8.62 $333 105 $3.17 $2 107 $0.02
===== === ==== === === ==== == === ====
Year ended December 31, 1996
Income from continuing
operations $4,670 $283
Less: Dividends on
preference stocks 81 -
----- ---
Basic EPS
Income from continuing
operations available to
common stockholders 4,589 756 $6.07 283 98 $2.88
Effect of Dilutive Securities
Assumed exercise of dilutive
stock options (9) 4 9 3
----- --- --- ---
Diluted EPS
Adjusted income from
continuing operations
available to common
stockholders $4,580 760 $6.03 $292 101 $2.88
===== === ==== === === ====
II-59
GENERAL MOTORS CORPORATION AND SUBSIDIARIES
NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS - continued
NOTE 19. Dividends on Common Stock
In connection with the consummation of the Hughes Transactions, the GM Board
determined that the amount available for the payment of dividends on outstanding
shares of $1-2/3 par value common stock would be the cumulative amount available
for the payment of dividends on $1-2/3 par value common stock immediately prior
to the closing of the Hughes Transactions, reduced by a pro rata portion of the
net reduction in GM's total stockholders' equity resulting from the Hughes
Transactions. In addition, the GM Board determined that the amount initially
available for the payment of dividends on shares of Class H common stock would
be the cumulative amount available for the payment of dividends on Class H
common stock immediately prior to the closing of the Hughes Transactions,
reduced by a pro rata portion of the net reduction in GM's total stockholders'
equity resulting from the Hughes Transactions. The pro rata allocation of the
net reduction in GM's total stockholders' equity resulting from the Hughes
Transactions was based on the fraction used in determining the ASCNI of former
Hughes immediately prior to the consummation of the Hughes Transactions.
Dividends may be paid on $1-2/3 par value common stock to the extent of the
amount determined to be available for the payment of dividends on $1-2/3 par
value common stock in connection with the consummation of the Hughes
Transactions, plus all of the earnings of GM after the consummation of the
Hughes Transactions, other than the earnings attributed to the Class H common
stock. Dividends may be paid on Class H common stock to the extent of the amount
initially determined to be available for the payment of dividends on Class H
common stock, plus the portion of earnings of GM after the closing of the Hughes
Transactions attributed to Class H common stock. The amount available for the
payment of dividends on each class of common stock will be reduced from
time-to-time by dividends paid on that class and will be adjusted from
time-to-time for changes to the amount of surplus attributed to the class
resulting from the repurchase or issuance of shares of that class.
As of December 31, 1998, the amount available for the payment of dividends on
$1-2/3 par value and Class H common stock was $15.9 billion and $3.8 billion,
respectively. Dividends may be paid on common stocks only when, and if declared
by the GM Board in its sole discretion. The GM Board's policy with respect to
$1-2/3 par value common stock is to distribute dividends based on the outlook
and the indicated capital needs of the business. The GM Board does not currently
intend to pay cash dividends on the Class H common stock, which was
recapitalized on December 17, 1997 as part of the Hughes Transactions.
Cash dividends per share of $1-2/3 par value common stock were $2.00, $2.00
and $1.60 for 1998, 1997, and 1996, respectively. Cash dividends per share for
Class H common stock, prior to its recapitalization on December 17, 1997, were
$1.00 and $0.96 in 1997 and 1996, respectively. Cash dividends per share of
Class E common stock were $0.30 in 1996.
NOTE 20. Stock Incentive Plans
Stock-Based Compensation
GM previously adopted SFAS No. 123, Accounting for Stock-Based Compensation,
and as permitted by this standard, will continue to apply the recognition and
measurement principles of Accounting Principles Board (APB) Opinion No. 25 to
its stock options and other stock-based employee compensation awards.
If compensation cost for stock options and other stock-based employee
compensation awards had been determined based on the fair value at the grant
date, consistent with the method prescribed by SFAS No. 123, GM's pro forma net
income, earnings attributable to common stocks, and basic and diluted earnings
per share attributable to common stocks would have been as follows (in millions
except per share amounts):
1998 1997 1996
---- ---- ----
Net income - as reported $2,956 $6,698 $4,963
- Pro forma $2,797 $6,558 $4,904
Earnings attributable
to common stocks
$1-2/3 - as reported $2,821 $6,276 $4,584
- Pro forma $2,673 $6,147 $4,528
Class H
(prior to recapitalization)
- as reported $ - $322 $283
- Pro forma $ - $315 $280
Class H
(subsequent to recapitalization)
- as reported $72 $2 $ -
- Pro forma $61 $(2) $ -
II-60
GENERAL MOTORS CORPORATION AND SUBSIDIARIES
NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS - continued
NOTE 20. Stock Incentive Plans (continued)
1998 1997 1996
---- ---- ----
Basic earnings per share
attributable to common stocks
$1-2/3 - as reported $4.26 $8.70 $6.06
- Pro forma $4.04 $8.52 $5.98
Class H
(prior to recapitalization)
- as reported $ - $3.17 $2.88
- Pro forma $ - $3.10 $2.85
Class H
(subsequent to recapitalization)
- as reported $0.68 $0.02 $ -
- Pro forma $0.57 $(0.02) $ -
Diluted earnings per share
attributable to common stocks
$1-2/3 - as reported $4.18 $8.62 $6.02
- Pro forma $3.96 $8.44 $5.94
Class H
(prior to recapitalization)
- as reported $ - $3.17 $2.88
- Pro forma $ - $3.10 $2.85
Class H
(subsequent to recapitalization)
- as reported $0.68 $0.02 $ -
- Pro forma $0.57 $(0.02) $ -
The fair value of each option grant is estimated on the date of grant using
the Black-Scholes option- pricing model with the following weighted-average
assumptions:
1998 1997 1996
--------------------- -------------- --------------
Hughes Hughes Hughes
GMSIP Plan GMSSOP GMSIP Plan GMSIP Plan
----- ---- ------ ----- ---- ----- ----
Interest rate 5.2% 5.6% 5.2% 6.2% 6.8% 5.3% 6.6%
Expected life (years) 5.0 6.2 5.0 5.0 7.0 5.8 7.0
Expected volatility 26.2% 32.8% 26.2% 26.3% 20.7% 27.3% 20.6%
Dividend yield 3.6% - 3.6% 3.4% 2.1% 3.1% 1.6%
The effect of the Hughes Transactions adjustment on the number of options and
related exercise prices, as described below, is considered, under SFAS No. 123,
a modification of the terms of the outstanding options. Accordingly, the 1997
pro forma disclosure includes compensation cost for the incremental fair value,
under SFAS No. 123, resulting from such modification. The pro forma amounts for
compensation cost are not indicative of the effects on operating results for
future periods.
GM's stock incentive plans consist of the General Motors 1997 Stock Incentive
Plan, formerly the General Motors Amended Stock Incentive Plan, (the "GMSIP"),
the Hughes Electronics Corporation Incentive Plan (the "Hughes Plan") and the
General Motors 1998 Salaried Stock Option Plan (the "GMSSOP"). The GMSIP and
GMSSOP are administered by the Executive Compensation Committee of the GM Board.
The Hughes Plan is administered by the Executive Compensation Committee of the
Board of Directors of Hughes.
Under the GMSIP, 60 million shares of $1-2/3 par value and 2.5 million shares
of Class H common stocks may be granted from June 1, 1997 through May 31, 2002,
of which 50 million and 2.4 million were available for grants at December 31,
1998. Options granted prior to 1998 under the GMSIP generally are exercisable
one-half after one year and one-half after two years from the dates of grant.
Stock option grants awarded during 1998 vest ratably over three years following
the grant date. Option prices are 100% of fair market value on the dates of
grant and the options generally expire 10 years from the dates of grant, subject
to earlier termination under certain conditions.
Under the Hughes Plan, Hughes may grant shares, rights, or options to acquire
up to 35.6 million shares of Class H common stock through December 31, 1998, of
which 5.4 million were available for grants at December 31, 1998. Option prices
are 100% of fair market value on the dates of grant and the options generally
vest over two to four years and expire 10 years from the dates of grant, subject
to earlier termination under certain conditions.
Under the GMSSOP, 50 million shares of $1-2/3 par value may be granted from
January 1, 1998 through December 31, 2007, of which 45.7 million were available
for grants at December 31, 1998. Stock options are exercisable two years from
the date of grant and vest one year following the date of grant, subject to
earlier termination under certain conditions. Option prices are 100% of fair
market value on the dates of grant and the options generally expire 10 years
and two days from the dates of grant.
II-61
GENERAL MOTORS CORPORATION AND SUBSIDIARIES
NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS - continued
NOTE 20. Stock Incentive Plans (concluded)
In connection with the Hughes Transactions, the number of options and related
exercise prices for outstanding options under the GMSIP and the Hughes Plan were
adjusted to reflect the change in the fair market value of $1-2/3 par value and
Class H common stocks that resulted from the Hughes Defense Class A common stock
distribution. The number of shares under option and the exercise price were
adjusted such that the aggregate intrinsic value of the options immediately
before and immediately after the transaction remained unchanged.
Changes in the status of outstanding options were as follows:
GMSIP and
GMSIP Hughes Plan GMSSOP
$1-2/3 Par Value Common Class H Common $1-2/3 Par Value Common
---------------------------------------------------------------------
Weighted- Weighted- Weighted
Shares Average Shares Average Share Average
under Exercise under Exercise under Exercise
Option Price Option Price Option Price
- ----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Options outstanding at
January 1, 1996 29,280,126 $44.03 8,190,867 $30.16 - $ -
Granted 7,087,590 $52.27 1,501,900 $61.31 - $ -
Exercised 6,207,072 $39.16 864,889 $28.58 - $ -
Terminated 202,697 $51.75 128,075 $42.94 - $ -
- ----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Options outstanding at
December 31, 1996 29,957,947 $46.94 8,699,803 $35.51 - $ -
- ----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Granted 8,989,460 $58.81 5,750,600 $54.90 - $ -
Exercised 9,273,674 $42.95 2,158,728 $30.21 - $ -
Terminated 330,727 $57.05 2,694,982 $42.56 - $ -
Hughes Transactions
adjustment 3,023,651 $ - 5,897,936 $ - - $ -
- ----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Options outstanding at
December 31, 1997 32,366,657 $51.40 15,494,629 $28.70 - $ -
- ----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Granted 9,854,805 $56.14 4,234,620 $50.78 4,332,305 $56.00
Exercised 8,242,624 $44.08 2,055,168 $22.71 - $ -
Terminated 454,558 $54.45 980,464 $31.95 328,630 $56.00
- ----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Options outstanding at
December 31, 1998 33,524,280 $50.72 16,693,617 $34.85 4,003,675 $56.00
- ----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Options exercisable at
December 31, 1998 17,475,607 $46.71 6,089,532 $27.48 - $ -
- ----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
The following table summarizes information about GM's stock option plans at
December 31, 1998:
------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Weighted-Average
Range of Options Remaining Weighted-Avg. Options Weighted-Average
Exercise Outstanding Contractual Exercise Exercisable Exercise
Prices Life (yrs.) Price Price
------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
GMSIP
$1-2/3 Par
Value Common
$15.00 to $39.99 5,739,004 4.8 $36.81 5,737,377 $36.81
40.00 to 49.99 5,200,940 6.7 $47.86 4,921,723 $47.85
50.00 to 70.00 22,584,336 7.9 $54.91 6,816,507 $54.21
------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
$15.00 to $70.00 33,524,280 7.2 $50.72 17,475,607 $46.71
------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
GMSIP and
Hughes Plan
Class H
Common
$9.86 to $20.00 940,516 3.7 $14.80 940,516 $14.80
20.01 to 30.00 1,489,096 5.9 $22.25 1,489,096 $22.25
30.01 to 40.00 10,255,230 8.2 $32.20 3,659,920 $32.86
40.01 to 50.00 1,372,700 9.6 $43.71 - $ -
50.01 to 54.79 2,636,075 9.3 $54.79 - $ -
-----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
$9.86 to $54.79 16,693,617 8.1 $34.85 6,089,532 $27.48
-----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
GMSSOP
$1-2/3 Par
Value Common
-----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
$56.00 4,003,675 9.0 $56.00 - $ -
-----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
II-62
GENERAL MOTORS CORPORATION AND SUBSIDIARIES
NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS - continued
NOTE 21. Other Income and Other Expenses
Other income and other expenses included the following (in millions):
Years Ended December 31,
------------------------
1998 1997 1996
---- ---- ----
Other income
Interest income $2,149 $2,127 $1,679
Insurance premiums 1,426 1,161 947
Mortgage operations investment income and
servicing fees 1,836 1,525 921
Rental car lease revenue 1,234 1,143 966
Gain on Hughes Defense spin-off - 4,269 -
Other 652 1,582 1,357
--- ----- -----
Total other income $7,297 $11,807 $5,870
====== ======= ======
Other expenses
Insurance losses and loss adjustment
expenses $1,061 747 622
Provision for financing losses 463 523 669
Other 782 241 792
--- --- ---
Total other expenses $2,306 $1,511 $2,083
====== ====== ======
NOTE 22: Segment Reporting
SFAS No. 131, Disclosures about Segments of an Enterprise and Related
Information, established standards for reporting information about operating
segments in financial statements. Operating segments are defined as components
of an enterprise about which separate financial information is available that is
evaluated regularly by the chief operating decision maker, or decision making
group, in deciding how to allocate resources and in assessing performance. GM's
chief operating decision maker is the Chairman and Chief Executive Officer. The
operating segments are managed separately because each operating segment
represents a strategic business unit that offers different products and serves
different markets.
GM's reportable operating segments within its Automotive, Electronics and
Other Operations business consist of General Motors Automotive (GMA), which is
comprised of four regions: GM North America (GMNA), GM Europe (GME), GM
Asia/Pacific (GMAP), and GM Latin America/Africa/Mid-East (GMLAAM), Delphi,
Hughes, and Other. GMNA designs, manufactures, and markets vehicles primarily in
North America under the following nameplates: Chevrolet, Pontiac, GMC,
Oldsmobile, Buick, Cadillac, and Saturn. GME, GMAP and GMLAAM meet the demands
of customers outside North America with vehicles designed, manufactured and
marketed under the following nameplates: Opel, Vauxhall, Holden, Isuzu, Saab,
Chevrolet, GMC, and Cadillac. Delphi is a diverse supplier of automotive systems
and components. Delphi offers products and services in the areas of electronics
and mobile communication; safety, thermal and electrical architecture; and
dynamics and propulsion. Hughes includes activities relating to designing,
manufacturing, and marketing advanced technology electronic systems, products,
and services for the telecommunications and space industries . The Other segment
includes the design, manufacturing and marketing of locomotives and heavy-duty
transmissions and the elimination of intersegment transactions, as well as
former Hughes' defense business prior to the Hughes Transactions. GM's
reportable operating segments within its Financing and Insurance Operations
business consist of GMAC and Other. GMAC provides a broad range of financial
services, including consumer vehicle financing, full-service leasing and fleet
leasing, dealer financing, car and truck extended service contracts, residential
and commercial mortgage services, and vehicle and homeowners insurance. The
Financing and Insurance Operations' Other segment includes financing entities
operating in Canada, Germany and Brazil, as well as eliminations of intersegment
transactions.
The accounting policies of the operating segments are the same as those
described in the summary of significant accounting policies except that the
disaggregated financial results have been prepared using a management approach,
which is consistent with the basis and manner in which GM management internally
disaggregates financial information for the purposes of assisting in making
internal operating decisions. GM evaluates performance based on stand alone
operating segment net income and generally accounts for intersegment sales and
transfers as if the sales or transfers were to third parties, that is, at
current market prices. Revenues are attributed to geographic areas based on the
location of the assets producing the revenues.
II-63
GENERAL MOTORS CORPORATION AND SUBSIDIARIES
NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS - Continued
Note 22. Segment Reporting (continued)
Elimin- Total Other Total
GMNA GME GMLAAM GMAP ations GMA Delphi Hughes Other(b) Automotive GMAC Financing Financing
---- --- ------ ---- ------ --- ------ ------ -------- ---------- ----- --------- ---------
(in millions)
1998(a)
Manufactured products
sales & revenues:
External customers $91,771 $23,948 $7,150 $2,814 $ - $125,683 $6,157 $5,924 $2,669 $140,433 $ - $ - $ -
Intersegment 2,430 1,088 253 109 (3,880) - 22,322 40 (22,362) - - - -
------ ------ ----- ----- ----- ------- ------ ----- ------ ------- --- --- ---
Total
manufactured
products 94,201 25,036 7,403 2,923 (3,880) 125,683 28,479 5,964 (19,693) 140,433 - - -
Financing revenue - - - - - - - - - - 12,731 854 13,585
Other income 2,296 804 150 121 - 3,371 179 131 (1,083) 2,598 5,183 (484) 4,699
------ ------ ----- ----- ---- ------- ----- ---- ----- ------- ------ --- ------
Total net sales
and revenues $96,497 $25,840 $7,553 $3,044 $(3,880) $129,054$28,658 $6,095 $(20,776) $143,031 $17,914 $370 $18,284
======= ======= ====== ====== ======= ======== ====== ====== ======== ======== ======= ==== =======
Depreciation and
amortization (c) $4,138 $1,102 $366 $95 $ - $5,701 $1,102 $434 $44 $7,281 $4,812 $108 $4,920
Interest income $537 $544 $116 $9 $ - $1,206 $57 $112 $(605) $770 $1,524 $(145) $1,379
Interest expense $939 $433 $92 $7 $ - $1,471 $277 $18 $(716) $1,050 $5,787 $56 $5,843
Income tax expense
(benefit $787 $319 $(213) $9 $ - $902 $(173) $(45) $161 $845 $612 $6 $618
Earnings (losses) of
nonconsolidated
associates $14 $(14) $102 $(152) $ - $(50) $55 $(128) $(61) $(184) $ - $ - $ -
Net income (loss)(c) $1,635 $419 $(175) $(243) $(2) $1,634 $(93) $272 $(279) $1,534 $1,325 $97 $1,422
Investments in
nonconsolidated
associates $675 $262 $445 $395 $(261) $1,516 $366 $41 $(606) $1,317 $557 $(557) $ -
Segment assets $69,043 $18,440 $5,548 $1,557 $(2,261) $92,327$15,506 $13,008 $4,797 $125,638$131,417 $334 $131,751
Expenditures for
property (d) $5,464 $1,205 $534 $197 $ - $7,400 $1,381 $344 $214 $9,339 $278 $ - $278
1997(a)
Manufactured products
sales & revenues:
External customers $99,435 $23,269 $8,437 $2,980 $ - $134,121 $5,540 $5,083 $8,939 $153,683 $ - $ - $ -
Intersegment 821 837 135 - (1,793) - 25,907 45 (25,952) - - - -
------ ------ ----- ----- ----- ------- ------ ----- ------ ------- --- --- ---
Total
manufactured
products 100,256 24,106 8,572 2,980 (1,793) 134,121 31,447 5,128 (17,013) 153,683 - - -
Financing revenue - - - - - - - - - - 12,577 185 12,762
Other income 2,372 812 212 158 - 3,554 189 496 3,845 8,084 4,018 (295) 3,723
------ ------ ------ ----- ----- ------- ----- ----- ------ ------- ------ ---- ------
Total net sales
and revenues $102,628 $24,918 $8,784 $3,138 $(1,793) $137,675$31,636 $5,624 $(13,168) $161,767 $16,595 $(110) $16,485
======== ======= ====== ====== ======= ======= ====== ====== ======== ======== ======= ===== =======
Depreciation and
amortization (c) $7,116 $1,563 $248 $294 $ - $9,221 $1,970 $296 $316 $11,803 $4,746 $67 $4,813
Interest income $839 $549 $167 $10 $ - $1,565 $57 $33 $(546) $1,109 $1,127 $(109) $1,018
Interest expense $643 $395 $118 $23 $(1) $1,178 $287 $91 $(693) $863 $5,256 $(6) $5,250
Income tax (benefit)
expense $(272) $121 $43 $(29) $(12 $(149) $44 $237 $23 $155 $913 $1 $914
(Losses) earnings of
nonconsolidated
associates $(35) $(171) $173 $11 $ - $(22) $27 $(72) $(11) $(78) $ - $ - $ -
Net (loss) income (c) $(12) $(17) $667 $(172) $(17) $449 $215 $471 $4,245 $5,380 $1,301 $17 $1,318
Investments in
nonconsolidated
associates $552 $229 $414 $427 $1 $1,623 $346 $75 $(637) $1,407 $213 $(213) $ -
Segment assets $69,378 $17,582 $5,651 $1,567 $(874) $93,304$15,026 $12,283 $3,055 $123,668$109,319 $(1,235) $108,084
Expenditures for
property (d) $5,387 $1,687 $435 $327 $ - $7,836 $1,383 $251 $331 $9,801 $238 $ - $238
See notes on next page
II-64
GENERAL MOTORS CORPORATION AND SUBSIDIARIES
NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS - Continued
Note 22. Segment Reporting (continued)
Elimin- Total Other Total
GMNA GME GMLAAM GMAP ations GMA Delphi Hughes Other(b) Automotive GMAC Financing Financing
---- --- ------ ---- ------ --- ------ ------ -------- ---------- ----- --------- ---------
(in millions)
1996(a)
Manufactured products
sales & revenues:
External customer $92,659 $25,239 $6,691 $3,001 $ - $127,590 $5,284 $3,958 $8,509 $145,341 $ - $ - $ -
Intersegment 723 289 32 - (1,044) - 25,748 51 (25,799 - - - -
------ ------ ----- ----- ----- ------- ----- ----- ------ ------- --- --- ---
Total
manufactured
products 93,382 25,528 6,723 3,001 (1,044) 127,590 31,032 4,009 (17,290) 145,341 - - -
Financing revenue - - - - - - - - - - 12,644 30 12,674
Other income 1,960 775 173 133 - 3,041 125 118 (435) 2,849 3,330 (309) 3,021
----- --- --- --- --- ----- --- --- ---- ----- ----- ---- -----
Total net sales
and revenues $95,342 $26,303 $6,896 $3,134 $(1,044) $130,631$31,157 $4,127 $(17,725 $148,190 $15,974 $(279) $15,695
======= ======= ====== ====== ======= ======== ====== ====== ======== ======== ======= ===== =======
Depreciation and
amortization (c) $4,348 $1,213 $202 $71 $ - $5,834 $843 $195 $273 $7,145 $4,676 $19 $4,695
Interest income $569 $581 $169 $26 $ - $1,345 $49 $7 $(377) $1,024 $743 $(88) $655
Interest expense $500 $430 $107 $29 $ - $1,066 $276 $43 $(614) $771 $4,938 $(14) $4,924
Income tax (benefit)
expense $54 $168 $106 $32 $(7) $353 $259 $105 $168 $885 $837 $1 $838
Earnings (losses) of
nonconsolidated
associates $37 $(97) $79 $70 $ - $89 $57 $(42) $24 $128 $ - $ - $ -
Net income (loss) (c) $819 $778 $642 $110 $(12) $2,337 $853 $184 $348 $3,722 $1,240 $1 $1,241
Investments in
nonconsolidated
associates $472 $597 $242 $379 $ - $1,690 $292 $95 $(523) $1,554 $158 $(158) $ -
Segment assets $67,528 $18,575 $4,941 $2,087 $(616) $92,515$15,390 $3,904 $15,182 $126,991 $98,578 $(703) $97,875
Expenditures for
property (d) $5,177 $1,652 $628 $389 $ - $7,846 $1,177 $262 $321 $9,606 $121 $ - $121
- ----------------------
(a)The operating results for 1997 and 1996 and assets as of December 31, 1996
are presented to reflect the changes to GM's organizational structure
resulting from the Hughes Transactions which occurred in December 1997. As
such, Delphi includes Delco, Hughes excludes Delco and Hughes Defense and
Other includes Hughes Defense. Adjustments have also been made to reflect the
impact of adjustments to Delphi's management basis financial statements in
connection with its initial public offering.
(b)Other includes the $4.3 billion gain resulting from the Hughes Transactions
for the year ended December 31, 1997, and income from discontinued operations
of $10 million for the year ended December 31, 1996.
(c)The amount reported for Hughes excludes amortization of GM purchase
accounting adjustments of approximately $21 million for 1998, 1997 and 1996
related to GM's acquisition of Hughes Aircraft Company. Such amortization was
allocated to GM's Other segment which is consistent with the basis upon which
the segments are evaluated.
(d)Excludes expenditures related to telecommunications and other equipment
amounting to $726 million, $606 million and $259 million in 1998, 1997
and 1996, respectively.
II-65
GENERAL MOTORS CORPORATION AND SUBSIDIARIES
NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS - continued
Note 22. Segment Reporting (concluded)
Information concerning principal geographic areas was as follows (in millions):
1998 1997 1996
----------------- ----------------- ----------------
Net Sales Net Sales Net Sales
& Net & Net & Net
Revenues Property Revenues Property Revenues Property
-------- -------- -------- -------- -------- --------
North America
United States $111,375 $22,814 $127,226 $20,778 $112,961 $22,821
Canada and Mexico 10,960 2,641 12,207 2,783 9,661 3,386
------- ------ ------- ------ ------- ------
Total North America 122,335 25,455 139,433 23,561 122,622 26,207
Europe
France 2,107 448 1,972 424 2,680 390
Germany 10,711 3,508 10,723 3,083 12,363 3,821
Spain 1,966 555 1,760 611 1,730 805
United Kingdom 5,379 1,205 5,409 1,183 5,063 1,103
Other 9,679 2,095 9,165 1,800 8,717 1,797
------- ------ ------- ------ ------- ------
Total Europe 29,842 7,811 29,029 7,101 30,553 7,916
Latin America
Brazil 4,775 1,991 5,317 1,964 5,063 1,910
Other Latin America 2,909 425 2,978 466 2,237 328
------- ------ ------- ------ ------- ------
Total Latin America 7,684 2,416 8,295 2,430 7,300 2,238
All Other 1,454 1,891 1,495 1,087 3,410 947
------- ------ ------- ------ ------- ------
Total $161,315 $37,573 $178,252 $34,179 $163,885 $37,308
======== ======= ======== ======= ======== =======
Note 23. Subsequent Events
On January 22, 1999, Hughes agreed to acquire Primestar, Inc.'s (Primestar)
2.3 million-subscriber medium power direct-to-home business. In a related
transaction, Hughes also agreed to acquire the high-power satellite assets and
direct broadcast satellite (DBS) orbital frequencies of Tempo, a wholly-owned
subsidiary of TCI Satellite Entertainment, Inc. The acquisitions will be
accounted for using the purchase method of accounting. The purchase price for
the direct-to-home business will be comprised of $1.1 billion in cash and
4,871,448 shares of GM Class H common stock, for a total purchase price of $1.3
billion. The direct-to-home transaction, pending regulatory and Primestar lender
approval is expected to close in early to mid-1999. The purchase price for the
Tempo assets consists of $500 million in cash, $150 million of which is expected
to be paid in early to mid-1999 and $350 million which is payable upon Federal
Communications Commission approval of the transfer of the DBS orbital
frequencies, which is expected in mid to late-1999.
On February 5, 1999, Delphi completed an initial public offering of 100
million shares of its common stock, which represented 17.7% of its outstanding
common shares. GM currently owns the remaining 82.3% of Delphi's common stock.
GM intends to fully separate Delphi from GM later in 1999 by distributing all of
its shares of Delphi common stock to holders of GM $1-2/3 par value common
stock. GM expects to accomplish this distribution through the following:
. Split-Off - such as an exchange offer by GM in which holders of GM's $1-2/3
common stock would be invited to tender their shares in exchange for shares
of Delphi common stock; or
. Spin-Off - a pro rata distribution by GM of its shares of Delphi common
stock to holders of GM's $1-2/3 common stock; or
. Combined Split-Off/Spin-Off - some combination of the above transactions.
Although GM is fully committed to completing the full separation of Delphi
from GM through such a distribution, any such distribution would be subject to a
number of conditions and there can be no assurance as to whether or when it will
occur.
Hughes entered into a contract with Asia-Pacific Mobile Telecommunications
Satellite Pte. Ltd. (APMT) effective May 15, 1998, whereby Hughes was to provide
to APMT a satellite-based mobile telecommunications system consisting of two
satellites, a ground segment, user terminals and associated equipment and
software. As part of the contract, Hughes was required to obtain all necessary
U.S. Government export licenses for the APMT system by February 15, 1999. On
February 24, 1999, the Department of Commerce notified Hughes that it intends to
deny the export licenses required by Hughes to fulfill its contractual
obligation to APMT. Hughes has until March 16, 1999 to request reconsideration
of the decision. As a result of Hughes failing to obtain the export licenses,
APMT has the right to terminate the contract. At this time, there are ongoing
discussions between Hughes and APMT regarding the contract, and between Hughes
and the U.S. Government regarding the export licenses. If the U.S. Government
ultimately denies the required export licenses or APMT terminates the
II-66
GENERAL MOTORS CORPORATION AND SUBSIDIARIES
NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS - concluded
Note 23. Subsequent Events (concluded)
contract, Hughes could be required to refund $45 million to APMT and record
a pre-tax charge to earnings of approximately $100 million in 1999.
Hughes has maintained a suit against the U.S. Government since September 1973
regarding the Government's infringement and use of a Hughes patent (the
"Williams Patent") covering "Velocity Control and Orientation of a Spin
Stabilized Body," principally satellites. On April 7, 1998, the U.S. Court of
Appeals for the Federal Circuit (CAFC) reaffirmed earlier decisions in the
Williams case including the award of $114 million in damages. The CAFC ruled
that the conclusions previously reached in the Williams case were consistent
with the U.S. Supreme Court's findings in the Warner-Jenkinson case. The U.S.
Government petitioned the CAFC for a rehearing, was denied the request, and
thereafter applied for a certiorari to the U.S. Supreme Court.
On March 1, 1999, the U.S. Surpreme Court denied the U.S. Government's
petition for certiorari. The case will be remanded back to the trial court
(Court of Claims) for entry of the final judgement. While no amount had been
recorded in the financial statements of Hughes to reflect the $114 million award
or the interest accumulating thereon as of December 31, 1998, it is expected
that resolution of this matter will result in the recognition of a pre-tax gain
of approximately $150 million during 1999.
On March 2, 1999, GM purchased an additional equity interest in Isuzu Motors,
Ltd. (Isuzu) that increased GM's equity interest from 37.5% to 49%. The
additional equity interest was purchased for approximately 52.5 billion yen or
approximately $440 million.
* * * * * *
II-67
GENERAL MOTORS CORPORATION AND SUBSIDIARIES
SUPPLEMENTARY INFORMATION
Selected Quarterly Data (Unaudited)
1998 Quarters
---------------------------------------------
1st 2nd(1)(2) 3rd(2)(3) 4th(4)
--- --------- --------- ------
(Dollars in Millions Except Per Share Amounts)
Total net sales and revenues $41,576 $38,929 $34,444 $46,366
------- ------- ------- -------
Income (loss) before income taxes
and minority interests 2,427 589 (1,243) 2,839
Income tax expense (credit) 808 175 (451) 931
Minority interests (10) 3 4 (6)
Losses of nonconsolidated associates (5) (28) (21) (130)
------ ---- ----- ------
Net income 1,604 389 (809) 1,772
Dividends on preference stocks 16 16 16 15
------ ---- ----- ------
Earnings on common stocks $1,588 $373 $(825) $1,757
====== ==== ===== ======
Earnings (loss) attributable to
common stocks
Earnings attributable to
$1-2/3 par value $1,574 $358 $(836) $1,725
-- - - ------ ---- ----- ------
Earnings attributable to Class H $14 $15 $11 $32
--- --- --- ---
Basic earnings (loss) per share
attributable to common stocks
Earnings attributable to
$1-2/3 par value $2.31 $0.54 $(1.28) $2.64
-- - - ----- ----- ------ -----
Earnings attributable to Class H $0.13 $0.14 $0.11 $0.30
----- ----- ----- -----
Average number of shares of common
stocks outstanding - basic
(in millions)
$1-2/3 par value 682 661 654 654
Class H 104 105 106 106
Diluted earnings (loss) per share
attributable to common stocks
Earnings attributable to
$1-2/3 par value $2.27 $0.52 $(1.28) $2.61
-- - - ----- ----- ------ -----
Earnings attributable to Class H $0.13 $0.14 $0.11 $0.30
----- ----- ----- -----
Average number of shares of
common stocks outstanding
- diluted (in millions)
$1-2/3 par value 693 672 654 665
Class H 109 111 110 109
II-68
GENERAL MOTORS CORPORATION AND SUBSIDIARIES
SUPPLEMENTARY INFORMATION - Continued
Selected Quarterly Data (Unaudited) - Continued
(1)Second-quarter 1998 results included a pre-tax charge of $74 million ($44
million after-tax, or $0.07 basic loss per share of $1-2/3 par value common
stock), related to work schedule modifications at Opel Belgium.
(2)Work stoppages in the United States during the second and third quarter of
1998 reduced calendar year pre-tax income by approximately $3.1 billion ($2.0
billion after-tax or $2.94 basic loss per share of $1-2/3 par value common
stock), after considering partial recovery of production losses from the work
stoppages.
(3)Third quarter 1998 results included a pre-tax loss of $430 million ($271
million after-tax, or $0.41 basic loss per share of $1-2/3 par value common
stock) related to the sale of the Delphi seating, coil spring and lighting
businesses.
(4)Fourth quarter 1998 results included pre-tax charges against income totaling
$534 million ($420 million after-tax or $0.64 basic loss per share of $1-2/3
par value common stock) resulting from GM's competitiveness studies.
II-69
GENERAL MOTORS CORPORATION AND SUBSIDIARIES
SUPPLEMENTARY INFORMATION - Continued
Selected Quarterly Data (Unaudited) - Continued
1997 Quarters
---------------------------------------------
1st(1)(2) 2nd 3rd 4th(6)(7)
--------- --- --- ---------
(Dollars in Millions Except Per Share Amounts)
Total net sales and revenues $42,217 $45,141 $41,903 $48,991
------- ------- ------- -------
Income before income taxes
and minority interests 2,742 3,228 1,609 213
Income tax expense (credit) 989 1,153 533 (1,606)(6)
Minority interests 19 18 4 12
Earnings (losses) of
nonconsolidated associates 24 5 (13) (94)
----- ----- ----- -----
Net income 1,796 2,098 1,067 1,737
Premium on exchange of
preference stocks - - 26 -
Dividends on preference stocks 20 20 16 16
----- ----- ----- -----
Earnings on common stocks $1,776 $2,078 $1,025 $1,721
====== ====== ====== ======
Earnings attributable to common stocks
Earnings attributable to
$1-2/3 par value $1,717 $1,941 $964 $1,654
----- ----- ----- -----
Earnings attributable to
Class H (8) $59 $137 $61 $65
----- ----- ----- -----
Earnings attributable to
Class H (9) $ - $ - $ - $2
----- ----- ----- -----
Basic earnings per share attributable
to common stocks
Earnings attributable to
$1-2/3 par value $2.30 $2.68 $1.35 $2.36
----- ----- ----- -----
Earnings attributable to
Class H (8) $0.59 $1.35 $0.60 $0.63
----- ----- ----- -----
Earnings attributable to
Class H (9) $ - $ - $ - $0.02
---- ---- ---- ----
Average number of shares of common stocks
outstanding - basic (in millions)
$1-2/3 par value 747 724 713 702
Class H (8) 100 101 102 103
Class H (9) - - - 104
Diluted earnings per share
attributable to common stocks
Earnings attributable to
$1-2/3 par value $2.28 $2.67 $1.34 $2.33
-- - - ----- ----- ----- -----
Earnings attributable to
Class H (8) $0.59 $1.35 $0.60 $0.63
-- ----- ----- ----- -----
Earnings attributable to
Class H (9) $ - $ - $ - $0.02
----- ----- ----- -----
Average number of shares of
common stocks outstanding
- diluted (in millions)
$1-2/3 par value 752 729 720 709
Class H (8) 103 104 105 106
Class H (9) - - - 107
II-70
GENERAL MOTORS CORPORATION AND SUBSIDIARIES
SUPPLEMENTARY INFORMATION - Concluded
Selected Quarterly Data (Unaudited) - Concluded
- ----------------------
(1)First quarter 1997 results included a pre-tax gain of $88 million, after
deducting certain legal expenses ($55 million after-tax or $0.07 basic
earnings per share of $1-2/3 par value common stock) that resulted from an
agreement with Volkswagen A.G. (VW) settling a civil lawsuit which GM brought
against VW.
(2)First quarter 1997 results included the unfavorable impact of a pre-tax
plant closing charge of $80 milion ($50 million after-tax or $0.07 basic loss
per share of $1-2/3 par value common stock) related to the announcement that
Delphi Interior and Lighting Systems will cease production at its Trenton,
New Jersey plant during the 1998 calendar year.
(3)Work stoppages in the United States during the second quarter of 1997
reduced calendar year pre-tax income by approximately $530 million ($330
million after-tax or $0.45 basic loss per share of $1-2/3 par value common
stock), after considering partial recovery of production losses from the work
stoppages.
(4)Second quarter 1997 results included a pre-tax gain of $490 million ($318
million after-tax or $0.33 basic earnings per share of $1-2/3 par value
common stock and $0.80 basic earnings per share of Class H common stock)
related to the merger of the satellite service operations of Hughes and
PanAmSat Corporation.
(5)Second quarter 1997 results included a pre-tax gain of $128 million ($103
million after-tax or $0.14 basic earnings per share of $1-2/3 par value
common stock) related to the sale of GM Europe's equity interest in Avis
Europe.
(6)Fourth quarter 1997 results included a tax-free gain of $4.3 billion ($6.08
basic earnings per share of $1-2/3 par value common stock) related to the
December 17, 1997 completion of the strategic restructuring of GM's Hughes
Electronics subsidiary (Hughes Transactions). The 1997 tax credit primarily
resulted from the effect of the tax-free status of the gain.
(7)Fourth quarter 1997 results included pre-tax charges against income totaling
$6.4 billion ($4.0 billion after-tax or $5.75 basic loss per share of
$1-2/3 par value common stock) resulting from GM's competitiveness studies.
(8)Represents information through December 17, 1997, the date on which GM
recapitalized the Class H common stock (GM's Recapitalization Date).
(9)Represents information for the period from December 18, 1997, through
December 31, 1997, which is subsequent to GM's Recapitalization Date.
II-71
GENERAL MOTORS CORPORATION AND SUBSIDIARIES
ITEM 9. Changes in and disagreements with accountants on accounting and
financial disclosure
None
II-72
PART III
GENERAL MOTORS CORPORATION AND SUBSIDIARIES
ITEMS 10, 11, 12, AND 13
Information required by Part III (Items 10, 11, 12, and 13) of this Form 10-K
is incorporated by reference from General Motors Corporation's definitive Proxy
Statement for its 1999 Annual Meeting of Stockholders, which will be filed with
the Securities and Exchange Commission, pursuant to Regulation 14A, not later
than 120 days after the end of the fiscal year, all of which information is
hereby incorporated by reference in, and made part of, this Form 10-K, except
that the information required by Item 10 with respect to executive officers of
the Registrant is included in Item 4A of Part I of this report.
III-1
PART IV
ITEM 14. Exhibits, Financial Statement Schedule, and Reports on Form 8-K
Page
Number
------
(a) 1. All Financial Statements See Part II
2. Financial Statement Schedule II - Allowances for
the Years Ended December 31, 1998, 1997, and 1996 IV-3
3. Exhibits (Including Those Incorporated by Reference)
Exhibit
Number
- ------
(3)(a) Restated Certificate of Incorporation, as amended, filed
as Exhibit 3(i) to the Current Report on Form 8-K of
General Motors Corporation dated June 8, 1998, and
Amendment to Article Fourth of the Certificate
of Incorporation - Division III - Preference Stock,
by reason of the Certificates of Designations filed
with the Secretary of State of the State of Delaware
on September 14, 1987 and the Certificate of Decrease
filed with the Secretary of State of the State of
Delaware on September 29, 1987 (pertaining to the six
series of Preference Stock contributed to the General
Motors pension trusts), incorporated by reference to
Exhibit 19 to the Quarterly Report on Form 10-Q of
General Motors Corporation for the quarter ended June 30,
1990 in the Form SE of General Motors Corporation
dated August 6, 1990; as further amended by the
Certificate of Designations filed with the Secretary
of State of the State of Delaware on June 28, 1991
(pertaining to Series A Conversion Preference Stock),
incorporated by reference to Exhibit 4(a) to Form S-8
Registration Statement No. 33-43744 in the Form SE
of General Motors Corporation dated November 1, 1991;
as further amended by the Certificate of Designations
filed with the Secretary of State of the State of
Delaware on December 9, 1991 (pertaining to Series B
9-1/8% Preference Stock), incorporated by reference to
Exhibit 4(a) to Form S-3 Registration Statement No.
33-45216 in the Form SE of General Motors Corporation
dated January 27, 1992; as further amended by the
Certificate of Designations filed with the Secretary
of State of the State of Delaware on February 14,
1992 (pertaining to Series C Convertible
Preference Stock), incorporated by reference to Exhibit
(3)(a) to the Annual Report on Form 10-K of General Motors
Corporation for the year ended December 31, 1991 in the
Form SE of General Motors Corporation dated March 20,
1992; as further amended by the Certificate of Designations
filed with the Secretary of State of the State of
Delaware on July 15, 1992 (pertaining to Series D 7.92%
Preference Stock), incorporated by reference to Exhibit
3(a)(2) to the Quarterly Report on Form 10-Q of
General Motors Corporation for the quarter ended June 30,
1992 in the Form SE of General Motors Corporation
dated August 10, 1992; and as further amended by the
Certificate of Designations filed with the
Secretary of State of the State of Delaware on
December 15, 1992 (pertaining to Series G 9.12%
Preference Stock), incorporated by reference to
Exhibit 4(a) to Form S-3 Registration Statement No.
33-49309 in the Form SE of General Motors Corporation
dated January 25, 1993. N/A
(3)(b) By-Laws, as amended, filed as Exhibit 3(ii) to the Current
Report on Form 8-K of General Motors Corporation dated
March 2, 1998. N/A
(4)(a) Form of Indenture relating to the $500,000,000 8-1/8%
Debentures Due April 15, 2016 dated as of April 1, 1986
between General Motors Corporation and Citibank,
N.A., Trustee, incorporated by reference to Exhibit 4
to Amendment No. 1 to Form S-3 Registration Statement No.
33-4452 and resolutions adopted by the Special Committee
on April 15, 1986, incorporated by reference to Exhibit
4(a) to the Current Report on Form 8-K of General Motors
Corporation dated April 24, 1986. N/A
(4)(b) Form of Indenture relating to the $700,000,000
9-5/8% Notes Due December 1, 2000 and the $1,400,000,000
Medium-Term Note Program dated as of November 15, 1990
between General Motors Corporation and Citibank, N.A.,
Trustee, incorporated by reference to Exhibit 4(a) to
Form S-3 Registration Statement No. 33-37737. N/A
(4)(c) Form of Indenture relating to the $377,377,000 7.75%
Debentures Due March 15, 2036 dated as of December 7,
1995 between General Motors Corporation and Citibank,
N.A., Trustee, filed as Exhibit 4(a) to Amendment No. 1
to Form S-3 Registration Statement No. 33-64229. N/A
IV-1
GENERAL MOTORS CORPORATION AND SUBSIDIARIES
PART IV - Continued
ITEM 14. Exhibits, Financial Statement Schedule, and Reports on Form 8-K
(continued)
Exhibit Page
Number Number
- ------ ------
(4)(d) Instruments defining the rights of holders of nonregistered
debt of the Registrant have been omitted from this exhibit
index because the amount of debt authorized under any such
instrument does not exceed 10% of the total assets of the
Registrant and its subsidiaries. The Registrant agrees
to furnish a copy of any such instrument to the
Commission upon request. N/A
(4)(e)(i) Amended and Restated Declaration of Trust of General
Motors Capital Trust D, incorporated by reference
to Exhibit 4(c)(i) to the Current Report on Form 8-K of
General Motors Corporation dated July 1, 1997. N/A
(4)(e)(ii) Amended and Restated Declaration of Trust of General
Motors Capital Trust G, incorporated by reference to
Exhibit 4(c)(ii) to the Current Report on Form 8-K
of General Motors Corporation dated July 1, 1997. N/A
(4)(f)(i) Indenture between General Motors Corporation and
Wilmington Trust Company, incorporated by reference
to Exhibit 4(d)(i) to the Current Report on Form 8-K of
General Motors Corporation dated July 1, 1997. N/A
(4)(f)(ii) First Supplemental Indenture between General Motors
Corporation and Wilmington Trust Company With Respect
To The Series D Junior Subordinated Debentures,
incorporated by reference to Exhibit 4(d)(ii) to the
Current Report on Form 8-K of General Motors
Corporation dated July 1, 1997. N/A
(4)(f)(iii)Second Supplemental Indenture between General Motors
Corporation and Wilmington Trust Company With Respect
To The Series G Junior Subordinated Debentures,
incorporated by reference to Exhibit 4(d)(iii) to
the Current Report on Form 8-K of General Motors
Corporation dated July 1, 1997. N/A
(4)(g)(i) Series D Preferred Securities Guarantee Agreement,
General Motors Capital Trust D, incorporated by
reference to Exhibit 4(g)(i) to the Current Report
on Form 8-K of General Motors Corporation dated
July 1, 1997. N/A
(4)(g)(ii) Series G Preferred Securities Guarantee Agreement,
General Motors Capital Trust G, incorporated by
reference to Exhibit 4(g)(ii) to the Current Report
on Form 8-K of General Motors Corporation dated
July 1, 1997. N/A
(10)(a)** General Motors Amended 1987 Stock Incentive Plan,
incorporated by reference to Exhibit A to the Proxy
Statement of General Motors Corporation dated
April 13,1992 N/A
(10)(b)** General Motors Performance Achievement Plan, incorporated
by reference to Exhibit A to the Proxy Statement of
General Motors Corporation dated April 16, 1982. N/A
(10)(c)** General Motors 1987 Performance Achievement Plan,
incorporated by reference to Exhibit A to the Proxy
Statement of General Motors Corporation dated
April 17,1987 N/A
(10)(d)** General Motors 1992 Performance Achievement Plan,
incorporated by reference to Exhibit A to the Proxy
Statement of General Motors Corporation dated
April 13,1992 N/A
(12) Computation of Ratios of Earnings to Fixed Charges for
the Years Ended December 31, 1998, 1997, and 1996. IV-6
(21) Subsidiaries of the Registrant as of December 31, 1998 IV-7
(23) Consent of Independent Auditors IV-14
(99) Hughes Electronics Corporation and Subsidiaries
Consolidated Financial Statements and Management's
Discussion and Analysis IV-15
(27) Financial Data Schedule (for SEC information only) N/A
* The registrant hereby undertakes to furnish supplementally a copy of any
omitted schedule or other attachment to the Securities and Exchange
Commission upon request.
** Required to be filed as an exhibit pursuant to Item 14(c) of Form 10-K.
(b) Reports on Form 8-K
Five reports on Form 8-K, dated October 5, 1998, October 6, 1998, October 13,
1998, November 16, 1998 and December 11, 1998 were filed during the quarter
ended December 31, 1998 reporting matters under Item 5, Other Events.
IV-2
GENERAL MOTORS CORPORATION AND SUBSIDIARIES
SCHEDULE II - ALLOWANCES
Additions Additions
Balance at charged to charged to
beginning costs and other Balance at
Description of year expenses accounts Deductions end of year
- ----------- ------- -------- -------- ---------- -----------
(Dollars in Millions)
For the Year Ended December 31, 1998
Allowances Deducted from Assets
Finance receivables (unearned income) $3,516 $ - $3,288 $2,777 $4,027
Allowance for credit losses 903 463 96(a) 441(b) 1,021
Accounts and notes receivable (for doubtful
receivables) 181 210 19(a) 79(b) 331
Inventories (principally for obsolescence of
service parts) 259 9(c) - - 268
Other investments and miscellaneous assets
(receivables and other) 13 - 1 - 14
Miscellaneous allowances (mortgage and other) 202 52 113 115 252
----- ---- ----- ----- ------
Total Allowances Deducted from Assets $5,074 $734 $3,517 $3,412 $5,913
====== ==== ====== ====== ======
For the Year Ended December 31, 1997
Allowances Deducted from Assets
Finance receivables (unearned income) $3,642 $ - $3,161 $3,287 $3,516
Allowance for credit losses 922 523 62(a) 604(b) 903
Accounts and notes receivable (for doubtful
receivables) 151 41 41(a) 52(b) 181
Inventories (principally for obsolescence of
service parts) 303 - - 44(c) 259
Other investments and miscellaneous assets
(receivables and other) 12 - 1 - 13
Miscellaneous allowances (mortgage) 138 106 6 48 202
----- ---- ----- ----- ------
Total Allowances Deducted from Assets $5,168 $670 $3,271 $4,035 $5,074
====== ==== ====== ====== ======
For the Year Ended December 31, 1996
Allowances Deducted from Assets
Finance receivables (unearned income) $3,922 $ - $3,044 $3,324 $3,642
Allowance for credit losses 808 669 116(a) 671(b) 922
Accounts and notes receivable (for doubtful
receivables) 138 49 9(a) 45(b) 151
Inventories (principally for obsolescence of
service parts) 229 74(c) - - 303
Other investments and miscellaneous assets
(receivables and other) 33 1 - 22 12
Miscellaneous allowances (mortgage) 59 99 31 51 138
----- ---- ----- ----- ------
Total Allowances Deducted from Assets $5,189 $892 $3,200 $4,113 $5,168
====== ==== ====== ====== ======
Notes:(a) Primarily reflects the recovery of accounts previously written-off.
(b) Accounts written off.
(c) Represents net change of inventory allowances.
Reference should be made to the notes to consolidated financial statements.
IV-3
GENERAL MOTORS CORPORATION AND SUBSIDIARIES
SIGNATURES
Pursuant to the requirements of Section 13 of the Securities Exchange Act of
1934, the Registrant has duly caused this report to be signed on its behalf by
the undersigned, hereunto duly authorized.
GENERAL MOTORS CORPORATION
--------------------------
(Registrant)
Date: March 1, 1999 By
/s/JOHN F. SMITH, JR.
---------------------
(John F. Smith, Jr.
Chairman of the Board of Directors
and Chief Executive Officer)
Pursuant to the requirements of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934, this
report has been signed below on this 1st day of March 1999 by the following
persons on behalf of the Registrant and in the capacities indicated.
Signature Title
--------- -----
/s/JOHN F. SMITH, JR. Chairman of the Board of Directors
- --------------------- and Chief Executive Officer
(John F. Smith, Jr.)
/s/HARRY J. PEARCE Vice Chairman of the Board of
- ------------------ Directors
(Harry J. Pearce)
/s/G. RICHARD WAGONER, JR. President, Chief Operating Officer and
- -------------------------- Director
(G. Richard Wagoner, Jr.)
/s/J. MICHAEL LOSH Executive Vice President )
- ------------------ and Chief Financial Officer )
(J. Michael Losh) )Principal
)Financial
/s/ERIC A. FELDSTEIN Vice President and Treasurer)Officers
- -------------------- )
(Eric A. Feldstein) )
/s/WALLACE W. CREEK Comptroller )
- ------------------- )
(Wallace W. Creek) )Principal
)Accounting
/s/PETER R. BIBLE Chief Accounting Officer )Officers
- ----------------- )
(Peter R. Bible) )
IV-4
GENERAL MOTORS CORPORATION AND SUBSIDIARIES
SIGNATURES - Concluded
Signature Title
/s/PERCY BARNEVIK Director
- -----------------
(Percy Barnevik)
/s/JOHN H. BRYAN Director
- ----------------
(John H. Bryan)
/s/THOMAS E. EVERHART Director
- ---------------------
(Thomas E. Everhart)
/s/CHARLES T. FISHER, III Director
- -------------------------
(Charles T. Fisher, III)
/s/GEORGE M. C. FISHER Director
- ----------------------
(George M. C. Fisher)
/s/KAREN KATEN Director
- --------------
(Karen Katen)
/s/J. WILLARD MARRIOTT, JR. Director
- --------------------------
(J. Willard Marriott, Jr.)
/s/ANN D. MCLAUGHLIN Director
- --------------------
(Ann D. McLaughlin)
/s/ECKHARD PFIEFFER Director
- -------------------
(Eckhard Pfeiffer)
/s/JOHN G. SMALE Director
- ----------------
(John G. Smale)
/s/LOUIS W. SULLIVAN Director
- --------------------
(Louis W. Sullivan)
/s/DENNIS WEATHERSTONE Director
- ----------------------
(Dennis Weatherstone)
IV-5