Southwest’s drop attracts Elliott

Article Excerpt

SOUTHWEST AIRLINES CO. $28 is a hold. The company (New York symbol LUV; Manufacturing sector; Shares outstanding: 598.5 million; Market cap: $16.8 billion; Dividend yield: 2.5%; Takeover Target Rating: Medium; www.southwest.com) provides low-cost air travel to 121 destinations in 42 states, as well as 10 international countries. Despite the rebound in travel volumes in the wake of the pandemic, Southwest’s shares have dropped 50% in the past three years. That’s partly due to delays receiving new 737 Max airliners as manufacturer Boeing deals with several quality control problems. However, the stock jumped 10% in June 2024 after Elliott announced that it now owns $1.9 billion of the airline’s shares. The activist wants the company to replace CEO Bob Jordan and Executive Chairman Gary Kelly, as well as offer higher-margin services such as premium seating. Even if Elliott is successful, Southwest’s short-term prospects remain weak. Southwest Airlines is a hold. hold…