While it has been shaky so far, Wall Street is finding ways to deal with the massive buyout loan overhang. Then again, in some cases – such as with the failure of the Harman International Industries Inc. (NYSE: HAR) buyout – things have been fairly brutal.
Ironically enough, this situation can be an opportunity. In fact, according to a report in Bloomberg.com, Lehman Brothers Holdings Inc. (NYSE: LEH) has put together a $3 billion fund to invest in leveraged loans.
It does seem like a good idea. After all, there has been quite a bit of distressed selling. And, there are many quality issues on the market. Of course, Lehman is not alone. Other such funds include offerings from BlackRock and Eaton Vance. No doubt, I suspect this is only the beginning.
So, yet again, Wall Street has found a way to deal with a big mess -- and in the process, will probably make a nice profit.
Tom Taulli is the author of various books, including The Complete M&A Handbook
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