Stone House Capital Management Acquires New Stake in Designer Brands Inc

Overview of Stone House Capital's Recent Acquisition

On September 12, 2024, Stone House Capital Management, LLC (Trades, Portfolio) marked a significant portfolio addition by purchasing 8,194 shares of Designer Brands Inc (DBI, Financial). This transaction introduced a new holding within the firm's investment portfolio, executed at a trade price of $5.20 per share. The acquisition not only diversifies Stone House Capital’s holdings but also reflects a strategic move into the retail sector, specifically targeting the footwear and accessories market.

Insight into Stone House Capital Management, LLC (Trades, Portfolio)

Located at 1019 Kane Concourse, Bay Harbor Islands, FL, Stone House Capital Management, LLC (Trades, Portfolio) is known for its selective investment approach, focusing on substantial long-term gains. The firm currently manages a portfolio comprising three major holdings: Light & Wonder Inc (LNW, Financial), United Parks & Resorts Inc (PRKS, Financial), and RumbleON Inc (RMBL, Financial), with a total equity of $241 million. This recent acquisition of DBI shares represents a minor yet strategic addition to its diverse portfolio.

About Designer Brands Inc

Designer Brands Inc, headquartered in the USA, operates as a prominent designer, producer, and retailer of footwear and accessories. The company, listed since June 29, 2005, runs through three main segments: U.S. Retail, Canada Retail, and Brand Portfolio. Despite a challenging market, reflected by a current market capitalization of $355.194 million and a stock price of $6.40, DBI continues to innovate in its offerings.

Impact of the Transaction on Stone House Capital’s Portfolio

The acquisition of DBI shares by Stone House Capital Management has a modest impact on its portfolio, constituting about 0.02% of the total holdings. This move indicates a strategic entry point, considering DBI’s current market position and potential for recovery. The firm now holds a 6.30% stake in Designer Brands, showcasing a significant commitment to this new holding.

Designer Brands’ Market Performance and Valuation

DBI's stock performance has shown a notable increase of 23.08% since the transaction date, despite a year-to-date decline of 28.89%. The stock is currently trading at a significant discount, with a price to GF Value of 0.53, suggesting potential undervaluation. However, the GF Value rank stands at 4/10, indicating caution due to possible value traps.

Comparative Analysis with Other Major Investors

Hotchkis & Wiley Capital Management LLC remains the largest shareholder in Designer Brands, with other notable investors including Ken Fisher (Trades, Portfolio) and firms like Barrow, Hanley, Mewhinney & Strauss also maintaining stakes. This diverse interest from multiple investment firms underscores DBI’s appeal in the investment community, despite its current challenges.

Strategic Rationale Behind the Investment

Stone House Capital’s investment in Designer Brands aligns with its philosophy of targeting undervalued opportunities with potential for significant long-term returns. This strategic move might be driven by DBI’s strong market presence and recovery potential in the post-pandemic retail landscape.

Conclusion

Stone House Capital Management’s recent acquisition of Designer Brands shares marks a calculated move to capitalize on potential market corrections and growth in the retail sector. While the current metrics suggest a cautious approach, the firm’s investment could yield significant returns as market conditions evolve. The future outlook for DBI remains cautiously optimistic, contingent on broader economic recovery and consumer spending trends.

This article, generated by GuruFocus, is designed to provide general insights and is not tailored financial advice. Our commentary is rooted in historical data and analyst projections, utilizing an impartial methodology, and is not intended to serve as specific investment guidance. It does not formulate a recommendation to purchase or divest any stock and does not consider individual investment objectives or financial circumstances. Our objective is to deliver long-term, fundamental data-driven analysis. Be aware that our analysis might not incorporate the most recent, price-sensitive company announcements or qualitative information. GuruFocus holds no position in the stocks mentioned herein.

Disclosures

I/We may personally own shares in some of the companies mentioned above. However, those positions are not material to either the company or to my/our portfolios.