“When Patient Capital Grows Impatient

Recaps” are Becoming more Popular as a Way to Satisfy the Diverging Needs and

Priorities of Shareholders
by François M. de Visscher

The Windham Co., a third-generation manufacturing company, had not surveyed its shareholders to evaluate their liquidity and capital needs in more than 20 years. The company had very effective shareholder information and communication programs. But when the 35 shareholders were interviewed in a recent survey, the leaders were surprised by the results. The composition of the shareholder base had changed. The estate and financial objectives of the shareholders had become quite diverse. The “patient capital” of this company had been well maintained through two generational transitions but was getting impatient. More…