Bermuda-based Global Crossing Limited, the fifth ranked provider of US long-distance telephone service has filed to sell, from time to time, up to $8 billion in debt securities, preferred and common stock and warrants.

The company said it would use the proceeds for general corporate purposes which may include debt repayment, capital spending, possible acquisitions, and repurchase of its capital stock, among other purposes, according to the shelf registration filed with the Securities and Exchange Commission.

The actual amount of any securities to be issued, and the terms of those securities, will be determined at the time of the sale, if such sale occurs.

The shelf registration statement relating to these securities has been filed with the SEC, but has not yet become effective.

These securities may not be sold nor may offers to buy be accepted prior to the time the shelf registration statement becomes effective.