Despite being up 1% in the fourth quarter, Loews (L), the holding company owned and managed by the Tisch family, sold off with energy and was down 12% for the year. The company’s CNA insurance unit generated strong cash flow, but its stakes in energy companies Diamond Offshore (DO) and Boardwalk Pipelines Partners (BWP) declined 30% and 29% respectively. DO has the strongest balance sheet among drilling rig operators and should be able to upgrade its fleet cheaply as distressed sellers seek capital. BWP cut its dividend to invest in additional service points along its pipeline and expand its ability to transport gas from the northeastern U.S. Loews repurchased shares amounting to approximately 3.5% of the company and has substantial liquidity to take advantage of undervalued opportunities including additional shares.
From Mason Hawkins (Trades, Portfolio)’ Longleaf Partners Fund Q4 2014 Management Discussion.
