The bonds, which are registered with the U.S. This constitutes the largest-ever bond offering completed by ABB. The net proceeds of the issue will be used for general corporate purposes, including the previously-announced acquisition of Thomas & Betts Corporation. As a result of this offering, ABB has cancelled the $4 billion credit agreement it had entered into in connection with the Thomas & Betts acquisition. ”We’re extremely pleased with the positive response to our offering,” said Michel Demaré, ABB’s Chief Financial Officer. “This transaction further extends the maturity of our long-term debt and gives us additional financial strength and flexibility at some of the lowest rates ever achieved in the U.S.