Marlton urges 180 Capital to consider Source's merger offer

Published 27/01/2025, 22:14
Marlton urges 180 Capital to consider Source's merger offer

CHICAGO - Marlton Partners L.P., a significant shareholder in 180 Degree Capital Corp. (NASDAQ: TURN), has called upon the company's Board of Directors to actively engage with Source Capital (NYSE: SOR) regarding its recent merger proposal. The investment firm, which owns about 4.6% of TURN's outstanding stock, believes that the merger offer, announced on January 24, 2025, could potentially maximize shareholder value. According to InvestingPro data, TURN currently has a market capitalization of $39.9 million and trades at $4.01 per share, with a relatively low market volatility indicated by its beta of 0.85.

The merger proposal from Source Capital values TURN at 101% of its net asset value per share, a valuation that Marlton Partners views as a reflection of the market's recognition of TURN's asset value surpassing its current stock price and market capitalization. Marlton has expressed that this positive market reaction is indicative of shareholders' desire to see the trading discount on TURN's stock eliminated. InvestingPro analysis reveals that TURN's financial health score is currently rated as WEAK, with particularly concerning metrics in profitability and cash flow generation. Get access to over 30 additional key metrics and insights with InvestingPro's comprehensive research report.

Marlton Partners has previously shown concern over TURN's sustained underperformance and significant trading discount to net asset value. This concern led to their decision to nominate three director candidates—James Elbaor, Gabi Gliksberg, and Aaron Morris—for election to TURN's Board at the upcoming 2025 Annual General Meeting of Shareholders. Financial data from InvestingPro supports these concerns, showing that TURN is not profitable over the last twelve months, with minimal revenue of $0.13 million and a current ratio of 1.35.

The investment firm expects the TURN Board to fulfill its fiduciary duties by considering both the offer from Source Capital and any other potential suitors to ensure the best outcome for all shareholders.

Marlton Partners is a Chicago-based investment firm with a history of engaging in active ownership to enhance value in closed-end funds and other assets. The firm's approach to investment is grounded in acquiring significant ownership positions and advocating for corporate actions that can unlock long-term shareholder value.

This news is based on a press release statement issued by Marlton Partners L.P. detailing their position on the proposed merger between 180 Degree Capital Corp. and Source Capital.

In other recent news, 180 Degree Capital Corp. announced an all-stock merger with Mount Logan Capital Inc. The new entity, which will operate under the name Mount Logan Capital Inc., is projected to have over $2.4 billion in assets under management and will focus on the private credit market and regulated insurance solutions. The merger is structured to offer full net asset value to 180 Degree Capital shareholders at closing, marking a significant shift for the company which has not historically paid dividends.

In more recent developments, 180 Degree Capital Corp. has released financial results for the third quarter of 2024, showing a reduction in operating expenses from $6.5 million to $3 million annually. The company's portfolio companies, such as Potbelly (NASDAQ:PBPB) and Synchronoss, reported positive metrics, with Brightcove exceeding earnings expectations. The company anticipates growth and enhanced stock value from investments like Ascent Industries, expecting to generate $40-50 million in cash from the sale of its remaining assets.

However, the company faced challenges with Lantronix (NASDAQ:LTRX) in Q3 2024, leading to a reduction in the company's stock position. Despite this, management remains optimistic, citing strategic realignments and cost reductions as key drivers for improvement. Investors are also showing interest in the renewal of the AT&T contract, expected by the end of 2024.

This article was generated with the support of AI and reviewed by an editor. For more information see our T&C.

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