Guild Holdings Company (NYSE: GHLD) has commented on a Schedule 13D filing by Bayview Asset Management, LLC, confirming that it has been approached by Bayview for preliminary discussions regarding a broader commercial relationship and potential corporate transaction. Bayview beneficially owns 7.3% of Guild's total Class A common stock and less than 1% of the total voting power of Guild's outstanding common stock.
Guild Mortgage Company, a wholly owned subsidiary of Guild Holdings Company, was founded in 1960 and is a nationally recognized independent mortgage lender providing residential mortgage products and local in-house origination and servicing. Guild employs a relationship-based loan sourcing strategy to execute on its mission of delivering the promise of homeownership in neighborhoods and communities across 49 states and the District of Columbia.
As of the most recent period, Guild Holdings Company's total Class A common stock outstanding was 77.6 million shares, indicating that Bayview's 7.3% ownership represents approximately 5.65 million shares. Guild's nationwide presence is reflected in its operations across 49 states and the District of Columbia, providing a broad reach for its relationship-based loan sourcing strategy.
The discussions with Bayview regarding a potential corporate transaction, including a significant minority investment, merger, asset purchases, or other business combinations, indicate a potential shift in Guild's strategic direction. This development will be closely watched by investors and industry observers as they await further details and potential outcomes of these discussions. Following these announcements, the company's shares moved 6.93%, and are now trading at a price of $13.73. Check out the company's full 8-K submission here.