What: Shares of Avon Products (AVP) rose 13.2% in the month of September, according to S&P Capital IQ data, following concerns about a possible cash crunch amid reports the cosmetics specialist was holding talks to sell a stake to an outside investor. So far this year, Avon Products stock has fallen more than 55%, badly underperforming even the broader market's 0.5% decline:
So what: Shares of Avon initially rose more than 6% on September 11, 2015 after reports the company was holding talks with private-equity companies. But keeping in mind that Avon was previously reported to be considering selling its entire business -- which saw sales and adjusted net income decline 17% and 45%, respectively, last quarter given heavy currency headwinds -- things quickly turned sour after investors realized this could mean Avon is struggling to find a buyer, and may need a capital infusion.
In addition, on September 16, specialty investment research company Probes Reporter revealed a "new but undisclosed" SEC probe into Avon Products, though the purpose of the probe remains unclear. Probes Reporter vaguely explained, "All we know about the SEC probe at this time is that it somehow pertains to the conduct, transactions, and/or disclosures of Avon Products."
Now what: Because Avon is struggling, striking such a deal with outside investors could mean selling a stake at a significant discount to Avon's current trading price. Alternatively, if Avon is indeed facing a cash shortage, and ultimately unable to come to terms with one of these investors, it could potentially be forced to commence a dilutive secondary offering to raise the cash it requires. Neither scenario would be ideal for current Avon shareholders. In the end, given the uncertainty swirling around Avon Products, I think investors would be wise to stay away from Avon stock for now.
