Starboard CEO on Macy's: We Invested Too Early

The video discusses the challenges and strategies in finding new investment opportunities, focusing on the shift towards constructive activism. It includes case studies on Office Depot and Macy's, analyzing the outcomes and strategies involved in these investments. The discussion highlights the importance of shareholder influence and the evolving nature of activism in investment.

What is one of the main challenges in finding new investment opportunities according to the transcript?

• Lack of interested shareholders

• Decreasing number of undervalued companies

• Increased competition from other investors

• Regulatory restrictions

How has the role of shareholders changed in the context of investment activism?

• They are actively suggesting undervalued companies

• They are more focused on running proxy contests

• They are less involved in decision-making

• They are primarily concerned with short-term gains

What is a significant factor in the reluctance of management teams to make changes?

• Lack of financial resources

• Insufficient market research

• Pressure from competitors

• Fear of losing control

What was a key issue in the failed merger between Office Depot and Staples?

• Financial instability of OfficeMax

• Incompatibility of business models

• Antitrust concerns from regulators

• Lack of interest from stakeholders

What was the initial investment strategy for Office Depot?

• Focusing on real estate

• Merging with a competitor

• Investing in high-value stocks

• Expanding internationally

What is the current focus of Macy's to unlock value according to the transcript?

• Enhancing online presence

• Reducing workforce

• Expanding product lines

• Exploring real estate opportunities

What is the speaker's perspective on the timing of the investment in Macy's?

• It was perfectly timed

• It was too late

• It was too early

• It was irrelevant