Editor's Note: A previous version of this article contained incorrect information on the relationships among Avis Budget Group, Dollar Thrifty, and Hertz.
Although we don't believe in timing the market or panicking over market movements, we do like to keep an eye on big changes -- just in case they're material to our investing thesis.
What: It's all over but the second-guessing. This morning, Avis Budget Group
So what: This is good news for Hertz, which probably didn't want to get drawn into a longer bidding war. It's bad news for shareholders of Dollar Thrifty, though, since the lack of competitive bidding quashes any hopes that they might enjoy an even greater buyout premium.
Now what: Keep an eye on General Electric
Curious about further moves in the car-rental industry? Add Hertz, Dollar Thrifty, and Avis to your Watchlist and see whether this really is the end of the bidding.