The Apple Effect - $P, $AAPL, $FOSL

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As the markets wait to see what happens with Spotify, Pandora ($P) is now looking to explore strategic alternatives (and we're listening to"This House is on Fire" by AC/DC as we listen to this). Is this also Amazon Effect? The Apple Effect? After Rdio filed for bankruptcy not long ago and Soundcloud has taken on more debt, it's clear that the music space is still in flux with the big players crowding out the smaller guys. PS. Since we're so sick of hearing about the "Amazon Effect," we'll double down on the "Apple Effect": Fossil ($FOSL) watches appear to be feeling it.

News for the Week of 11/06/16

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  • For-Profit Education - Despite a recent settlement with the government, for-profit educator DeVry University faces new headwinds. Also, another college closure.  
  • Fossil joins the ranks of retailers who will soon be taking restructuring charges and closing stores.
  • Healthcare/Pharma - many distressed investors and professionals are turning their attention away from E&P, OFS and retail are turning their attention here given the possibility that increased regulatory pressure may create more stress.
  • Lumber Liquidators continues to face legal scrutiny: is it a near-term bankruptcy candidate?
  • Municipal bankruptcy -  Populism converges on Scranton as a $500mm+ debt load triggers voter movement to put bankruptcy to vote.  
  • Payday Lenders are under siege.  
  • Private Equity - an assessment of its influence and future.  
  • Last Week: We noted the large AUM raises by Oakhill and Carlyle for deployment into the distressed market. In contrast, Fortress Investment Group underscores that prices are too rich and yields too low, and so they're prepared to return investor funds.
  • Last Week II: As "Dead Malls" continue to garner attention, a major mall owner talks up its own book and projects a major Aeropostale turnaround.
  • Last Week III: In the wake of increased seismic activity, Oklahoma and federal regulators order the closure of injection wells in Oklahoma. We noted this issue in last week's feature.  
  • Chart of the Week: