Axalta Coating Systems (NYSE:AXTA) is a leading paint provider for auto manufacturers, truck manufacturers and auto body shops. Its stock jumped on takeover speculation, rising 18.4% from $27.20 to $32.20 and boosting the Fund’s return by 41 basis points. In March, PPG, a competitor, made a takeover bid for rival Akzo Nobel. Akzo turned down the offer, but may respond by acquiring Axalta to fend off PPG. However, famed investor Warren Buffet already owns 10% of Axalta, and he may buy the rest to combine it with his Benjamin Moore Paints subsidiary. We don’t know who, if anyone, will become dancing partners, but we continue to hold our shares due to Axalta’s leading position in the high-margin coatings industry.
Jerome Dodson (Trades, Portfolio)'s first quarter 2017 Parnassus Funds commentary.
