GE 2015 Annual Report Download - page 120

MD&A CRITICAL ACCOUNTING ESTIMATES
92 GE 2015 FORM 10-K
OTHER LOSS CONTINGENCIES
Other loss contingencies are uncertain and unresolved matters that arise in the ordinary course of business and result from events or
actions by others that have the potential to result in a future loss. Such contingencies include, but are not limited to environmental
obligations, litigation, regulatory proceedings, product quality and losses resulting from other events and developments.
When a loss is considered probable and reasonably estimable, we record a liability in the amount of our best estimate for the ultimate
loss. When there appears to be a range of possible costs with equal likelihood, liabilities are based on the low-end of such range.
However, the likelihood of a loss with respect to a particular contingency is often difficult to predict and determining a meaningful
estimate of the loss or a range of loss may not be practicable based on the information available and the potential effect of future
events and decisions by third parties that will determine the ultimate resolution of the contingency. Moreover, it is not uncommon for
such matters to be resolved over many years, during which time relevant developments and new information must be continuously
evaluated to determine both the likelihood of potential loss and whether it is possible to reasonably estimate a range of possible loss.
When a loss is probable but a reasonable estimate cannot be made, disclosure is provided.
Disclosure also is provided when it is reasonably possible that a loss will be incurred or when it is reasonably possible that the amount
of a loss will exceed the recorded provision. We regularly review all contingencies to determine whether the likelihood of loss has
changed and to assess whether a reasonable estimate of the loss or range of loss can be made. As discussed above, development of a
meaningful estimate of loss or a range of potential loss is complex when the outcome is directly dependent on negotiations with or
decisions by third parties, such as regulatory agencies, the court system and other interested parties. Such factors bear directly on
whether it is possible to reasonably estimate a range of potential loss and boundaries of high and low estimates.
Further information is provided in Notes 2, 13 and 22 to the consolidated financial statements.
92 GE 2015 FORM 10-K