Convergys faces activist pressure

Article Excerpt

CONVERGYS CORP. $24 (New York symbol CVG; Manufacturing & Industry sector; Shares outstanding: 91.5 million; Market cap: $2.2 billion; Dividend yield: 1.8%; Takeover Target Rating: Highest; www.convergys.com) operates 136 call centres for clients in 33 countries. The company was once part of Cincinnati Bell. The stock has gained 3% in the past month on speculation Convergys is now talking to several potential buyers. Earlier this year, CEO Andrea Ayers decided to resign her post after five years in the position and nearly 30 years with the company. Activist investor Elliott Management owns slightly less than 5% of Convergys stock. Although Elliott has yet to share its plans for the company, it is possible Ayers decided to leave given the activist’s reputation for shaking up company management. Convergys continues to struggle with the automation of its customer-service functions. Many of its clients are also merging. That cuts demand for its services. Still, the chance of a takeover adds some appeal. Convergys is a hold. hold…