GE's gaping pension deficit is just a tiny part of companies' $269 billion gap.

The 110-year-long relationship is coming under increasing scrutiny from investors.

For many borrowers, lower credit ratings involve little pain.

For many borrowers, lower credit ratings involve little pain.

Company issues four earnings-per-share numbers.

Company issues four earnings-per-share numbers.

Shortfall swelled as the company spent more than $45B on share buybacks.

Shortfall swelled as the company spent more than $45B on share buybacks.