Item 8.01 Other Events.
On March 16, 2009, Lincoln Electric Holdings, Inc. (the "Company") issued a press release reporting the execution of definitive agreements for the acquisition of the remaining 52% of Jinzhou Jin Tai Welding and Metal Co., Ltd. ("Jin Tai"), a business in China that it currently has a 48% interest in, as well as the divestiture of a 35% interest in Kuang Tai Metal Industrial Co., Ltd. ("Kuang Tai"), a Taiwan-based business. Pursuant to the agreements, Lincoln will exchange its 35% ownership interest in Kuang Tai for the remaining 52% of Jin Tai. Lincoln will make cash payments of an estimated $38 million and assume Jin Tai's debt of approximately $18 million. The transaction is subject to customary closing conditions, including approval by both Kuang Tai's shareholders and government regulatory agencies, with closing expected on or about July 1, 2009. Lincoln expects that the transaction would be modestly dilutive to 2009 earnings. A copy of the Company's press release issued on March 16, 2009 is attached hereto as Exhibit 99.1 and incorporated herein by reference. The press release is also available through the Company's website at www.lincolnelectric.com.
Item 9.01 Financial Statements and Exhibits.
(d) Exhibits
99.1 The Company's press release dated March 16, 2009.

---