8-K 1 d89027e8-k.txt FORM 8-K 1 SECURITIES AND EXCHANGE COMMISSION Washington, D.C. 20549 -------------------------------------------------------------------------------- FORM 8-K CURRENT REPORT Pursuant to Section 13 or 15(d) of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934 Date of Report (Date of earliest event reported): July 11,2001 ECHOSTAR COMMUNICATIONS CORPORATION (Exact name of registrant as specified in charter) NEVADA 0-26176 88-0336997 (State or other jurisdiction (Commission (IRS Employer of incorporation) File Number) Identification No.) 5701 S. SANTA FE DRIVE LITTLETON, COLORADO 80120 (Address of principal executive offices) (Zip Code) Registrant's telephone number, including area code: (303) 723-1000 ITEM 5. OTHER EVENTS As summarized in the press release attached as Exhibit 99.1, EchoStar Communications Corporation ("EchoStar") announced today that, subject to customary regulatory approval, it has increased its equity stake in Starband Communications Inc. ("Starband") to 32% and has acquired four out of seven seats on the Starband Board of Directors. In exchange, EchoStar will invest an additional $50 million in Starband. Further, EchoStar will lease transponder capacity to Starband from a next generation satellite. EchoStar's equity stake will increase to 60% upon commencement of the construction of the next generation satellite. SIGNATURES Pursuant to the requirements of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934, as amended, the Registrant has duly caused this report to be signed on its behalf by the undersigned hereunto duly authorized. ECHOSTAR COMMUNICATIONS CORPORATION Dated: July 11, 2001 By: /s/ Michael R. McDonnell ----------------------------------------- Michael R. McDonnell, Senior Vice President and Chief Financial Officer 2 EXHIBIT INDEX
EXHIBIT NUMBER DESCRIPTION ------- ----------- 99.1 Press Release, dated July 11, 2001, issued by EchoStar announcing increased equity stake in Starband Communications Inc.