Although GM expects Europe car sales to fall again in 2013, it says profits will improve in all of its regions.

FORBES: GM Expects Higher Profits in 2013

And the recall of nearly a half-million Chevrolet Cruzes over the last several weeks may be one factor that has knocked down demand, although GM executives instead cite intra-brand competition from other models such as Malibu.

FORBES: Already? 2 Recalls Of New Escape Leave Ford With Egg On Face

Although cuts at GM and Chrysler have removed some (though not enough) excess capacity in America, not a single car factory in Europe has closed so far.

ECONOMIST: The car industry

The Peugeot deal is likely to help GM fill in the blanks on its Opel turnaround plan, although some analysts are still questioning why GM wants to hang onto its European operations, given the declining market and intense competition.

FORBES: Ford And GM Try To Outrun Europe's Auto Slump

Although not illegal, to date no GM crops have been grown commercially in the British countryside.

BBC: Owen Paterson backs UK-grown genetically modified food

But that has not stopped GM from pulling out of Facebook (although it will continue to maintain its page, investing millions in its overall presence).

FORBES: GM Doesn't "Like" Facebook, Drops Ads

Although the large-SUV segment has been under pressure, the GM rigs have been bringing in higher revenues and profits.

FORBES: Magazine Article

GM's stake is below the 34% needed for legal control in Japan (although nobody doubts who calls the shots at the company).

ECONOMIST: Car mergers

Although some Liberal Democrat ministers are reported to be open to the prospect of relaxing the rules on GM food, the party's grassroots has previously been hostile to the technology.

BBC: Owen Paterson backs UK-grown genetically modified food