8-K 1 b41404ffe8-k.txt FLEETBOSTON FINANCIAL CORP. FORM 8-K 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) DECEMBER 19, 2001 -------------------------------------------------------------------------------- FLEETBOSTON FINANCIAL CORPORATION -------------------------------------------------------------------------------- (Exact name of registrant as specified in its charter) RHODE ISLAND -------------------------------------------------------------------------------- (State or other jurisdiction of incorporation) 1-6366 05-0341324 -------------------------------------------------------------------------------- (Commission File Number) (IRS Employer Identification No.) 100 Federal Street, Boston, MA 02110 -------------------------------------------------------------------------------- (Address of principal executive offices) (Zip Code) Registrant's telephone number, including area code: 617-434-2200 ------------ -------------------------------------------------------------------------------- (Former name or former address, if changed since last report) Item 5. OTHER EVENTS. ------------- In a press release dated December 19, 2001, FleetBoston Financial Corporation (the Corporation), in recognition of the ongoing economic slowdown, announced a series of actions to strengthen its balance sheet which will result in a charge to fourth quarter 2001 earnings. Pursuant to Form 8-K, General Instruction F, the Corporation hereby incorporates by reference the press release attached hereto as Exhibit 99. Item 7. FINANCIAL STATEMENTS AND OTHER EXHIBITS. ---------------------------------------- EXHIBIT NO. DESCRIPTION ----------- ----------- Exhibit 99 Press Release Dated December 19, 2001 SIGNATURES Pursuant to the requirements of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934, as amended, the Registrant has duly caused this report to be signed in its behalf by the undersigned hereunto duly authorized. FLEETBOSTON FINANCIAL CORPORATION --------------------------------- Registrant By: /s/ Eugene M. McQuade ---------------------------- Eugene M. McQuade Vice Chairman and Chief Financial Officer Dated: December 19, 2001