Over the last six months, our Dell (DELL, Financial) position remained a top contributor with the underlying stock appreciating 33%. In the recent quarter, the stock was a detractor, declining 6% as uncertainty increased over the outcome of the proposed management buyout. We continued to work with Carl Icahn to propose a better alternative for shareholders. Given his structure, flexibility, and capital, Icahn was in the best position to lead the development of an outcome that provided an attractive payout but allowed shareholders to remain owners and benefit from the company's transformation. We sold approximately half of our Dell shares to Icahn to enable him to construct a compelling alternative. Subsequent to quarterend, the Dell Board has extended the vote on the buyout offer three times as it became obvious that shareholders would not approve the deal. Prior to the third postponement, Michael Dell and Silver Lake increased their offer to $13.75 and included a special dividend of 13 cents plus the normal third quarter 8 cent dividend. Southeastern continues to oppose the offer and will work with Icahn Enterprises to ensure that Dell has the right leadership who will focus the company on its profitable and growing enterprise business while allowing long-term shareholders to participate in its long-term success.
From Mason Hawkins' semi-annual 2013 report.
From Mason Hawkins' semi-annual 2013 report.
