Core Viewpoint - Kinney Asset Management has significantly increased its investment in Avantor, making it the fund's largest equity position despite the company's recent financial struggles and stock price decline [1][2][3]. Group 1: Investment Activity - Kinney Asset Management disclosed a purchase of 470,000 shares of Avantor, increasing its position by approximately $4.52 million [1][2]. - The total position in Avantor now stands at about 1.85 million shares, valued at $23.03 million, representing 34.3% of the fund's reportable assets under management (AUM) [2][3]. Group 2: Company Financials - Avantor's stock price is currently $11.52, down 46% over the past year, underperforming the S&P 500, which has increased by about 16.5% during the same period [3]. - The company reported a revenue decline of 5% to $1.62 billion in the third quarter, primarily due to reduced demand in the biopharma sector [6]. - Avantor experienced a significant non-cash goodwill impairment of $785 million related to its distribution business, but still generated $268 million in adjusted EBITDA and $172 million in free cash flow [8]. Group 3: Company Overview - Avantor, Inc. is a global provider of essential products and services for the life sciences and advanced technology sectors, focusing on laboratory consumables and bioprocessing solutions [5]. - The company serves a diverse range of customers, including biopharma, healthcare, education, government, and advanced technology sectors across multiple regions [7]. Group 4: Management Outlook - Management has expressed optimism through restructuring efforts and a $500 million share repurchase program, indicating confidence in the company's future despite current challenges [9]. - The investment strategy of Kinney Asset Management suggests a focus on long-term recovery and normalized earnings potential for Avantor, rather than short-term fluctuations [10].