Pass on these two activist targets

Article Excerpt

Activist investors seek out the same hidden assets we look for, including assets that can be sold or spun off. However, we don’t agree with their assessment of these two targets. HARLEY-DAVIDSON INC. $39 is a hold. The company (New York symbol HOG; Manufacturing & Industry sector; Shares outstanding: 153.9 million; Market cap: $6.0 billion; Dividend yield: 1.7%; Takeover Target Rating: Medium; www.harley-davidson.com) is an American manufacturer of motorcycles, parts, accessories, and merchandise. The company has now entered into a co-operation agreement with investment firm H Partners Management, which owns roughly 8% of the shares. As a result, Jared Dourdeville, a partner at the activist firm, has joined the board of directors. He will help improve the company’s executive compensation structure and governance practices. Meantime, H Partners supports Harley-Davidson’s current strategic plan, which includes focusing on its most profitable models and expanding revenue from licensing its brand to makers of clothing and other consumer products. The plan also includes merging its LiveWire electric motorcycle division with AEA-Bridges Impact…