In the telecom sector, Frontier Communications (FTR)’ stock price surged 16% on the day that its direct competitor, Windstream Holdings (WIN), announced a restructuring plan. Windstream intends to spin off its fiber and copper networks into a publicly traded REIT not subject to federal income tax. If Windstream proves successful in this endeavor, other rural carriers may follow suit. Frontier (FTR) subsequently reported strong second quarter 2014 earnings, with revenue trajectory from residential customers and stability in the small, medium and enterprise business lines. The company is also preparing for the fourth quarter close of the AT&T Connecticut wireline acquisition.
From Bernard Horn (Trades, Portfolio)’s Polaris Global Value Fund Q3 2014 Shareholder Letter.
