Borders enters into its strategic review phase

Borders Group, Inc. (NYSE: BGP), the arch-rival of bookseller Barnes & Noble, Inc. (NYSE: BKS), is struggling mightily. It may not go away, but it seems that there's a good chance that it will continue its business imperatives under new owners. According to a press release issued by the company, as well as this AP article, the company appears to want to sell itself at this point because, to be blunt, management appears to have failed at its job of preserving and growing shareholder value; it also has failed against online entities such as Amazon.com, Inc. (Nasdaq: AMZN) and other retailers such as Wal-Mart Stores, Inc. (NYSE: WMT). Why, as I write this, the stock is down 39%, and it is below $5 per stub. Yikes! I've been feeling pain with some of my financial stocks lately, but I feel bad for Borders shareholders, that's one torturous drop in value.

The retailer just isn't doing well; in fact, it decided to drop its dividend payout because it no longer can afford it. I'm sure shareholders were expecting such a move, but when it happens, it's always such a slap in the face. Borders is having cash issues, management doesn't seem to be confident in its current business structure, it missed earnings estimates, revenues are down, etc. Funny thing is, I actually prefer the shopping atmosphere of my local Borders store over my local Barnes & Noble outlet. Can't always go by personal experience, I guess.

Well, if one wants to speculate, one could buy some lottery tickets -- I mean, shares -- in Borders Group. I won't. Yes, catalysts could come down the line for the company, but for now, the market seems to be telling investors that this is one to stay away from.

Disclosure: I don't own any of the companies mentioned here; positions can change at any time.