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: Shares of retailer J. Crew (NYSE: JCG) left the clearance rack, jumping 16% today after the company announced it would be purchased by private equity buyers.

So what: TPG Group and Leonard Green & Partners will pay $2.86 billion, or $43.50 per share, for the company if the deal goes through. The company has until Jan. 15 to find a higher bidder, which some analysts think is likely.

Now what: With shares currently trading at $43.87, above the offered purchase price, investors are betting a better bid will come during the holiday shopping season. That wish may come true, but I would prefer to shop the sale rack for American Eagle Outfitters (NYSE: AEO) or Abercrombie & Fitch (NYSE: ANF), which are already hearing buyout rumors swirl. Betting on a bigger offer for J. Crew is just a little too risky for my taste.

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