Back to mobile site

Loeb Makes Case for Morgan Stanley (MS) and Tesoro (TSO)

January 9, 2013 3:49 PM EST
Besides discussing a controversial equity position in Herbalife (NYSE: HLF) today hedge fund Third Point, run by Dan Loeb, explained its rationale for taking equity positions in Morgan Stanley (NYSE: MS) and Tesoro (NYSE: TSO).

Regarding Morgan Stanley, Loeb said he believed the company was in the early innings of a turnaround.

"The bank's investment banking advisory and equity sales and trading businesses – which we know well from our perspectives as both investors and long-time satisfied clients – have consistently won top three market shares and are impressively positioned," said Loeb in a letter to investors.

Loeb pointed out that Morgan Stanley's stock currently trades at a 20 percent discount to tangible book. When it acquired its stake, at an average cost of $16.77 per share, MS traded at a 35 percent discount. At these levels, Loeb says he has a free call option on a promising restructuring.

Third Point's Tesoro call is based in Loeb's view that there is "significant hidden value in high-multiple assets like retail, pipelines, and General Partner interests". He also thinks impending transactions/projects are underappreciated and likes the company's shareholder-friendly management team. Loeb thinks TSO shares have potential to double.


Serious News for Serious Traders! Try StreetInsider.com Premium Free!

You May Also Be Interested In





Related Categories

Hedge Funds, Hot Hedge Fund News, Insiders' Blog

Related Entities

Daniel Loeb, Morgan Stanley, Third Point LLC, Hedge Funds