Some observers view the move as a vote of confidence in new CEO Myron Ullman, who replaced Ron Johnson, who was fired earlier this month. Johnson had tried to eliminate the company’s long-time strategy of offering coupons and sales. J.C. Penney customers stayed away in droves and sales plunged more than 25%. Ullman already has begun a return to the old discount strategy.
Soros joins William Ackman and his Pershing Square Capital Management as a major holder of J.C. Penney stock. Ackman owns about 17.8% of the company’s shares.
J.C. Penney has borrowed $850 million on its revolving credit facility to implement the discount strategy and also has hired financial advisory firm Blackstone Group L.P. (NYSE: BX) to help it figure out how to turn the ailing retailer around. Finding more investors like Soros is not a bad place to start.
Shares of J.C. Penney are up nearly 7.5% in premarket trading this morning at $16.37 in a 52-week range of $13.55 to $36.89.
Want to Retire Early? Start Here (Sponsor)
Want retirement to come a few years earlier than you’d planned? Or are you ready to retire now, but want an extra set of eyes on your finances?
Now you can speak with up to 3 financial experts in your area for FREE. By simply clicking here you can begin to match with financial professionals who can help you build your plan to retire early. And the best part? The first conversation with them is free.
Click here to match with up to 3 financial pros who would be excited to help you make financial decisions.
Thank you for reading! Have some feedback for us?
Contact the 24/7 Wall St. editorial team.
Latest from 24/7
