Core Insights - Activist investors initiated a record number of campaigns in 2025, driven by market volatility, favorable financing conditions, and increased deal activity [1] Group 1: Market Conditions - The year 2025 saw heightened market volatility, which contributed to the surge in activist campaigns [1] - Favorable financing conditions were noted, allowing activist investors to pursue more aggressive strategies [1] Group 2: Activist Campaigns - A record number of campaigns were launched by activist investors, indicating a growing trend in corporate governance and performance improvement efforts [1] - The increase in deal activity suggests that companies are more receptive to changes proposed by activist investors [1]

Relaxed rules in the U.S. around banking mergers have reportedly caught the eye of activist investors.By completing this form, you agree to receive marketing communications from PYMNTS and to the sharing of your information with our sponsor, if applicable, in accordance with our Privacy Policy and Terms and Conditions .Complete the form to unlock this article and enjoy unlimited free access to all PYMNTS content — no additional logins required.That’s according to a report Tuesday (Dec. 30) by The Wall Stree ...

As a CEO coach, I’ve witnessed many times when activists have orchestrated the ousting of a chief executive, often with a board that is anything but surprised. Behind closed doors, I’ve had many directors tell me they quietly agreed with a transition. These activist investors secretly strike terror in the hearts of boards and CEOs, seeking to profit quickly by buying stakes in companies to influence management and strategic decisions. Their goal is to unlock shareholder value that the activists claim is tra ...

Core Insights - The acquisition of Whole Foods by Amazon for $13.7 billion in 2017 was influenced by pressure from activist investors, specifically Jana Partners, who threatened to take control of the board and sell the company [1][2][4]. Group 1: Activist Investor Pressure - John Mackey, cofounder and former CEO of Whole Foods, revealed that he was pressured by Jana Partners, which had acquired an 8.8% stake in the company, to explore a sale [2][5]. - Jana Partners presented a confrontational ultimatum, indicating they would take over the board, fire Mackey and his executives, and sell the company to the highest bidder [4][6]. Group 2: Whole Foods' Operational Challenges - Whole Foods faced declining same-store sales for six consecutive quarters and was struggling with competition from conventional grocers offering organic products [6]. - The company's reputation for high prices, often referred to as "Whole Paycheck," contributed to its vulnerability to activist pressure, leading to a significant drop in stock price prior to Jana's involvement [6]. Group 3: Strategic Considerations - In response to the activist investors, Whole Foods' leadership considered various options, including a proxy battle, but recognized the need for time to improve operations and lower prices, which was not feasible under the pressure from hostile shareholders [7].

Investment & Activism - Activist investors are likely to press targets over national security concerns [1] Mergers & Acquisitions - Coreweave is not budging on its $9 billion offer [1] Cryptocurrency - A cautious outlook is expected for Winklevoss crypto firm [1]

Core Insights - Activist investors have launched a record number of attacks on global corporations in the third quarter, indicating a significant increase in shareholder activism [1] - These investors have successfully gained more board seats and settlements, reflecting their growing influence in corporate governance [1] Summary by Category - **Activist Investor Activity** - A record number of attacks on global corporations were reported in the third quarter [1] - **Outcomes of Activism** - Activist investors won more board seats and settlements during this period, showcasing their effectiveness in pushing for operational changes and management shake-ups [1]

Leadership Changes - Tinder's CEO Faye Iosotaluno is stepping down in July after less than two years in the role, amid challenges in user growth and pressure from activist investors [1][4] - Match Group's CEO Spencer Rascoff will temporarily lead Tinder and has not named a replacement for Iosotaluno [4][5] Activist Investor Influence - Activist investors, including Elliott Management, Starboard Value, and Anson Funds, have acquired significant stakes in Match Group, prompting calls for cost-cutting and margin improvements [6][8] - Match Group signed an agreement with Elliott Management after the activist firm reportedly purchased a $1 billion stake in the company [6] Company Strategy and Performance - Rascoff has initiated a turnaround strategy, including a 13% workforce reduction, primarily affecting Tinder [7] - Iosotaluno previously indicated that Tinder would not return to revenue growth until 2027, while Rascoff expressed optimism about recent product momentum [11] - Tinder is testing new features, such as double-dating options and an AI "wingman" prototype to enhance user engagement [11][12]