LKQ may seek a buyer

Article Excerpt

LKQ CORP. $39 is a hold. The company (Nasdaq symbol LKQ; Manufacturing sector; Shares outstanding: 260.0 million; Market cap: $10.1 billion; Dividend yield: 3.1%; Takeover Target Rating: Medium; www.lkqcorp.com) sells replacement parts for cars and light trucks in North America and Europe. LKQ stands for “Like, Kind & Quality.” That’s a term for recycled or refurbished replacement parts that are acceptable to insurers in auto claims. LKQ has now placed two nominees, one each from activist investors Ancora Catalyst and Engine Capital, on its board of directors. The new directors will also participate in a new committee that will examine ways that the company can boost shareholder value, including finding a buyer for the entire company. The stock moved up on the news, however, it’s still down over 20% in the past year. It’s high debt load (40% of its market cap) also adds risk. LKQ Corp. is a hold. hold…