Why Elliott's Cruise Play Could Signal Wider Gains
A Much Needed Shake Up
When a shark like Elliott Management starts circling, you know someone is about to get a nasty surprise. Their recent move on Norwegian Cruise Line is, to me, less an investment and more a shot across the bow for the entire travel industry. Let’s be frank, Elliott doesn’t turn up for a quiet chat and a cup of tea. They arrive because they see a bloated, inefficient business that’s ripe for a proper shake up.
The curious thing about the travel sector, particularly cruises, is the massive gap between reality and perception. Hordes of people are desperate to get back on holiday, packing out ships and planes, yet many of these companies' share prices still look rather seasick. This is the sort of disconnect that activist investors adore. They see untapped value, and they have a very clear, and often ruthless, playbook for unlocking it.