The business world is buzzing with rumors that Harley-Davidson might be bought out by private equity firm Kohlberg Kravis Roberts (KKR.) At the time of this report, Harley stock has leapt 5.77 percent since takeover rumors started swirling today.
Incidentally, Harley stock is up 137 percent over a year ago-- proof that despite weak sales and a challenging marketplace, the Harley name still holds weight among investors.
We'll keep you posted on the situation as it develops.
Update (March 17, 2010): Harley-Davidson stock (HOG) closed at $28.35 on Tuesday, up nearly 7 percent. However, a New York Times blog entry states that "at least one analyst told the [Reuters] that such a deal was 'highly unlikely.'"
Sources: Hell for Leather, Fox Business
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- 2010 Harley-Davidson Lineup
- 2010 Harley-Davidson CVO Lineup
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Just saw this on CNBC – biggest gainer of the day. KKR is a pretty smart and successful company. Their analysts must see something there, but I’m missing it.
I am checking out lots of motorcycle blogs just trying to learn more about bikes. I just got my first a few months ago and I am loving it. I would love to find a royal blue bike do you know of any brands that carry their bikes in royal blue? P.S. if you get a second check out my blog @ Motorcyclessentials.com and tell me what I can do to improve the page. Its my first blog as well. Thanks Travis
I think that’s what a lot of people said about TPG when they bought Ducati when it was struggling under Cagiva Group ownership…
I think Harley’s brand equity still goes a long way.
OK so HOG stock is up 137 % over last year. But what about in the last 3 years? I sold my stock in December so I could write of my losses. I bought stock in the $40 to $60 range over a two year period. I lost $1000. I made it back in Ford stock.
I had a Harley in the 60s when I was a kid. I loved it but it was a beast. Transmission belonged on a tractor.
I bought a 2005 Fat Boy. and it had the same characteristics. Sold it and bought a Triumph. Same cache but at least it was modern
I think that Harley’s brand equity is still very strong that is why big companies are still looking at it as a good investment. I’m sure that fellow motorcycle enthusiasts don’t want to see one of the legends in motorcycle world disappear just like what happened to the dinasour.
Nathan,
Just coincidence you should use Harley and Dinosaur in the same sentence…..?
DING….and with that last comment…. let the Harley hate begin!!!!
Joe…please…you cut me to the quik! I don’t hate HD…I’m just trying to stimulate some spirited conversation!
(:
Ok, ok Pete, spirited conversation or Harley Hate, depends on your prospective I guess. (:
Really Joe…just trying to liven things up a bit.
Things have been so quite since Basem’s foray in to the world of gangs – SORRY!…I meant ‘clubs’.
Basem…c’mon awready! You must have another block of C4 tucked away…insert the fuse and light it. It’s time!
Hey Pete, there is always the “Hell for Leather” web site if you want to get into some great HD hate. Just go on there and say how much you love HD you’ll get more “spirited conversation” then you can handle. I don’t think they will even allow me to post on there anymore. LOL
Hmmmm…A whole forum of yankable chains…..
If they banned you I won’t last half an hour. I suspect I’m much more annoying & belligerent than you are!
I’m sure if we both went on together Pete their heads would explode
KKR—well they will sale off little by little of H.D., This is the way KKR works–look at the othe take over of KKR–BYE BYE H.D.
I thought Honda was going to buy HD??? Now it’s KKR, who’s next??? Please!!!!
Who knows, Joe
I don’t buy into rumors Rider, last one with Honda buying HD didn’t happen, don’t think this will either.
Thanks for the info.
Hope everthing works out for the hogs!!