Topic: How To Invest

Q: Hi Pat: What happened to DH Corp.? What is your recommendation on the stock? Thanks.

Article Excerpt

A: DH Corp., $14.90, symbol DH on Toronto (Shares outstanding: 106.8 million; Market cap: $1.6 billion; www.dh.com), was primarily a printer of cheques until 2013. Then, in light of falling demand for paper cheques, it began to focus on electronic banking systems. As part of that transition, in May 2014, the company changed its name from Davis + Henderson Corp. We’ve often pointed out the inherent risk in expanding through acquisition. DH provides an example of how this growth strategy may backfire. The company now sells software for managing payments, approving loans and mortgages, and servicing debt. DH has more than 8,000 clients—mainly financial institutions—in over 70 countries. They include 29 of the world’s top 50 banks as well as specialty lenders, credit unions, governments and corporations. The company has used acquisitions to fuel its shift to software: In January 2013, DH added to its 33% interest in Compushare Inc. by buying the remaining 67% stake for an undisclosed amount. Compushare was a California-based…