We also initiated a position in Delta Airlines (DAL, Financial) following the stock's relative underperformance this year. We view Delta as a best-in-class airline, with an irreplicable hub-and-spoke model centered by their Atlanta hub. The company's underperformance stems from its exposure to transatlantic routes, an area where competitive dynamics are likely to persist. While this will be a headwind, we believe Delta is well-positioned to outperform peers on the domestic front, and their investment grade balance sheet and strong free cash flow generation should allow for a meaningful return of capital to shareholders. With the company trading at a discount to legacy peers for the first time in a multi-year period, we believe the stock is setup well going forward. Delta’s stock has appreciated meaningfully since our investment.
From NWQ Large Cap Fund's 2nd quarter commentary.
