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.