GE CEO Says Dividend Is a Priority

The transcript discusses General Electric's (GE) challenges with prioritizing dividends amidst shareholder concerns and low expectations. It highlights the company's restructuring efforts under John Flannery, aiming for a smaller, more focused operation. The discussion covers GE's operational challenges, including balancing business performance across different sectors. The transcript also addresses cost-cutting measures to reduce overhead and excess costs, emphasizing the need for strategic changes to improve financial health.

What is the main concern for GE's shareholders regarding dividends?

• Increase in free cash flow

• High expectations for the quarter

• Reassurance from the CEO

• Potential dividend cut

What strategy is GE adopting to address its current challenges?

• Increasing its workforce

• Expanding into new markets

• Becoming a smaller, more focused company

• Investing in new technologies

Which company recently spun off two businesses as part of a streamlining trend?

• 3M

• Siemens

• Honeywell

• General Electric

What has been identified as a significant issue within GE's corporate operations?

• Lack of innovation

• Excess costs and inefficiencies

• Poor customer service

• Insufficient workforce

What was one of the measures taken by GE to cut costs under pressure from activist investors?

• Expanding GE Capital assets

• Hiring more executives

• Increasing dividends

• Reducing corporate car programs