DowngradeThe rating on Barnes is downgraded from BUY to NEUTRAL, reflecting that this acquisition likely represents the best possible outcome for shareholders at this point.
Equity ExposureEquity exposure among long-only funds remains near 2020-21 lows.
Valuation ConcernsThe $45/share valuation is seen as rather light, as it represents an 11.25x multiple on FY24E EBITDA and a 9.6x multiple on FY25E EBITDA, which falls well below the peer group average.