Abbott Board Approves Separation of AbbVie, Declares Special Distribution of AbbVie Stock

Abbott

announced today that its board of directors has approved the separation of its research-based pharmaceuticals business, which will be known as AbbVie Inc., and declared a special dividend distribution of all of the outstanding shares of AbbVie common stock. For every 1 share of Abbott common shares held, Abbott shareholders will receive 1 share of AbbVie common stock. No fractional shares of AbbVie will be issued. Shareholders will receive cash in lieu of fractional shares. The special dividend distribution is expected to be paid on Jan. 1, 2013, to Abbott shareholders of record as of the close of business on Dec. 12, 2012. The distribution of AbbVie common stock will complete the separation of the research-based pharmaceuticals business from Abbott. After the distribution, AbbVie will be an independent, publicly-traded company and Abbott will retain no ownership interest. AbbVie common stock is expected to begin trading on Jan. 2, 2013, on the New York Stock Exchange (NYSE) under the ticker symbol ABBV. Abbott will continue to trade on the NYSE under the ticker symbol ABT.