Hedge Funds to Companies: Let's Do It Myyyy Wayyy

EVEN those in charge of listed corporations have bosses, however much they dislike thinking of their shareholders that way. So most chief executives hope to avoid the attention of “activist” investors—mostly hedge funds that specialise in shaking up listed companies in the hope of a share-price jolt. Sadly for those who dwell in corner offices, activists are getting brasher. Not only do they have growing cash piles to deploy, they are now comfortable taking on even the biggest companies.