In what seems to be a peace agreement between Elliott and its activist investor, the company has announced its withdrawal of nomination for the board of directors. With this development, it could be inferred that there is some hope for peace in Salesforce. However, at what cost? The standoff between Elliott and its activist investor has taken a toll on both companies with allegations of corporate raiding and manipulating stock prices being traded. Is this conflict just symptomatic of bigger issues plaguing the tech sector as a whole or could grassroots activism lead to tangible changes within tech companies?
This new agreement likely signals the beginning of a thawing relationship between Elliott and Amazon. Up until now, the two companies have had a contentious relationship, with Elliott accusing Amazon of anticompetitive behavior and costing it jobs. However, this recent agreement suggests that they are starting to work together more cooperatively to improve their respective businesses.
It appears that Elliott’s work with the company is not done yet. This person familiar with the agreement suggests that Elliott may still have some unfinished business with the company.
The terms between the two companies didn’t include a standstill agreement or any type of legal document preventing Elliott from speaking badly about the company, talking to the press or anything like that. This resulted in Elliott publicly criticising Nvidia on multiple occasions, which caused tension between both companies.
Elliott has not ruled out the possibility of continuing their relationship with the person if things go sour, but they are more interested in maintaining a healthy, ongoing relationship. If there were to be a break in communication or any issues arose, Elliott would like to be able to come back and provide support.
Certainly, Elliott has the power to pressure Salesforce if the company does not meet its demands. But for now, at least, the activist firm appears to have appeased Elliott and has it off its back in advance of the stockholder’s meeting in June.
