Few sights will get a store owner more excited than a customer pulling up in a shiny new Jaguar and ripping out a billfold full of crisp cash. Owners of Ford
Opting to ignore a stipulation that could have voided the offer when the shares fell below $7.38, Kerkorian will press forward in his quest to acquire 20 million shares at $8.50 each. Clearly, Kerkorian was unphased by the company’s recent announcement that it will not return to profitability in 2009 as previously forecast.
Both Ford and rival General Motors
For Kerkorian, the tender offer would bring his combined stake in Ford to 120 million shares, more than a 5% stake. The question now is whether he intends to parlay that stake into either a seat on the board of directors as he did with GM, or a less public form of influence. One thing is certain: Kerkorian is no stranger to the automotive industry. Despite a laundry list of challenges, Kerkorian must have identified something in Ford's restructuring that he feels provides a competitive edge going forward. Given his expertise in the industry, Fools would do well to keep an eye on Ford and discover what Kerkorian sees.
When he pulls up to the next shareholder meeting, Kerkorian should leave the shiny Jag at home, though -- Ford sold the Jaguar line to Indian automaker Tata Motors last summer, and unemployed auto workers might not appreciate the display.
Further Foolishness:
- GM stock has been no Sunday drive.
- Sentiment on Ford may be rebounding.
- Ford actually turned a profit last quarter.