Making the two separate stocks allows each stock to maximize its individual flavor.
AT&T Wireless, which trades as a separate stock, has been strong.
In eliminating separate stocks for parts of its business, Sprint is continuing a trend for telephone companies.
Analysts said the issuance of a separate stock for steel was likely to be the last step before selling the steel operations outright.
Televisa is also undertaking a separate $50 million stock repurchase program.
In October 2000, the company announced that it would "restructure" itself into three independent companies with four separate stocks.
Nevertheless, advances in pantograph technology have largely eliminated the need for separate rolling stock in these areas.
Global Crossing shareholders will get one share in each of the separate stocks for every share they own.
Last year, AT&T announced plans to split itself into three companies with four separate stocks.
A separate, adjustable-rate preferred stock valued at $6 a share is also part of First Interstate's package.