SECURITIES AND EXCHANGE COMMISSION
Washington, DC 20549
FORM 8-K
CURRENT REPORT
Pursuant to Section 13 or 15(d) of the
Securities Exchange Act of 1934
Date of Report: February 17, 2000
Old Kent Financial Corporation
(Exact name of registrant as
specified in its charter)
Michigan
(State or other
jurisdiction of
incorporation)0-14591
(Commission
File Number)38-1986608
(IRS Employer
Identification no.)111 Lyon Street, N.W.
Grand Rapids, Michigan
(Address of principal executive offices)49503
(Zip Code)Registrant's telephone number,
including area code: (616) 771-5000
Item 5. Other Events. On February 11, 2000, Old Kent Financial Corporation ("Old Kent") completed its acquisition of Merchants Bancorp, Inc. ("Merchants"). On or about February 18, 2000, Old Kent will send certain instructions to the former stockholders of Merchants regarding the exchange of their certificates of Merchants common stock for Old Kent Financial Corporation common stock. These instructions include a brief discussion of OK Direct Invest, Old Kent's stock purchase and dividend reinvestment plan. The relevant portion of these instructions is attached as Exhibit 99.1.
This Form 8-K and Exhibit 99.1 hereto are incorporated by reference in the Old Kent Form S-3 Registration Statement (Reg. No. 333-89237) to include the information set forth in the attached instructions.
Item 7. Financial Statements, Pro Forma Financial Information, and Exhibits.
(c) Exhibits: 99.1 Exchange instructions to former stockholders of Merchants Bancorp, Inc.
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SIGNATURE
Pursuant to the requirements of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934, the registrant has duly caused this report to be signed on its behalf by the undersigned thereunto duly authorized.
Dated: February 17, 2000 OLD KENT FINANCIAL CORPORATION
(Registrant)
By: /s/ Mark F. Furlong
Mark F. Furlong
Executive Vice President and
Chief Financial Officer
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EXHIBIT INDEX
Exhibit Number Document
99.1 Exchange instructions to former stockholders of Merchants Bancorp, Inc.
