Part 2/5:
Ron Gross weighs in on the situation, highlighting that Barnes and Noble has attracted interest from multiple parties, including its chairman Leonard Riggio, who holds a 19% stake in the company. With a current market capitalization of $500 million, Gross elaborates on the intricate dynamics at play, noting that the company has initiated a shareholder rights plan—a measure often referred to as a "poisoned pill." This strategy allows the company to deter any unsolicited takeover attempts, which could be critical in securing a more favorable sale outcome.