Core Viewpoint - Katapult Holdings, Inc. has announced a definitive agreement to merge with The Aaron's Company, Inc. and CCF Holdings LLC in an all-stock transaction, aiming to create a premier omni-channel platform for non-prime consumers, enhancing growth potential and financial solutions [1][2][3]. Strategic and Financial Rationale - The merger will create a trusted platform for non-prime consumers to access durable goods and innovative financial solutions tailored to their needs [3]. - The combined company will establish a scaled omni-channel business with approximately 3,000 retail touchpoints and leading digital capabilities [3]. - The financial profile of the combined entity is projected to include over $4 billion in pro forma LTM revenue and approximately $450 million in pro forma LTM Adjusted EBITDA, supporting long-term double-digit Adjusted EBITDA margin potential [3]. - The merger is expected to unlock significant synergies, including enhanced underwriting capabilities and operating efficiencies [3]. Leadership and Governance - The combined company will continue to operate under the Katapult brand, headquartered in Atlanta, Georgia, with Cory Miller as CEO and Russell Falkenstein as CFO [7]. - The board of directors will consist of nine members, including Kyle Hanson as Executive Chair, with a majority being independent [8]. Transaction Details - Upon closing, current Katapult stockholders will own 6% of the combined company, with Aaron's and CCF Holdings stakeholders owning the remainder [5]. - The transaction is expected to close in the first half of 2026, pending stockholder and regulatory approvals [5].

Core Insights - Dupree Financial Group increased its stake in Macy's by acquiring 286,027 additional shares, bringing its total holdings to 810,473 shares valued at approximately $14.53 million as of September 30, 2025 [1][2][3] Company Overview - Macy's, Inc. is a leading omni-channel retailer with a revenue of $22.7 billion and a net income of $494 million for the trailing twelve months (TTM) [4][5] - The company operates a broad assortment of products through various sales channels, including department stores and digital platforms [5][7] Financial Performance - As of October 28, 2025, Macy's shares were priced at $19.70, reflecting a 27% increase over the past year, outperforming the S&P 500 by 8.4 percentage points [3] - In fiscal Q2, Macy's revenue declined to $5.0 billion from $5.1 billion in the prior year, but it achieved the best same-store sales growth in 12 quarters [9] - The company reduced long-term debt by $340 million in fiscal Q2, with total debt standing at $2.6 billion and cash reserves of $829 million [10] Investment Implications - Dupree Financial Group's significant purchase of Macy's shares indicates strong confidence in the company's future performance [8] - Despite the positive same-store sales growth, Macy's faced challenges with free cash flow, exiting Q2 with an outflow of $13 million, which may hinder its ability to manage debt and dividends [11]

Safe Harbor and Non-GAAP Disclosures Forward-Looking Statement and Risk Factors Investor Presentation First Quarter 25 The Markets at Town Center Jacksonville, Florida This communication contains , contains certain forward-looking statements within the meaning of Section 27A of the Securities Act of 1933, as amended (the "Securities Act"), and Section 21E of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934, as amended (the "Exchange Act"). The Company intends such forward-looking statements to be covered by the safe har ...