Harley-Davidson Stock Price Surged On Takeover Speculation

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Rumors surrounding a report that Harley-Davidson could be changing hands seemed to fuel an increase in the motorcycle company's stock price. This morning Reuters reported unconfirmed talk that the iconic United States motorcycle maker, with a manufacturing site in York County, could be involved in a deal with a private equity firm called Kohlberg Kravis Roberts and Company.

Trading of Harley-Davidson stock ended up about 5 percent for the day, closing at $28.02 per share.

KKR is a private equities firm. According to their website, "We acquire industry-leading companies and work with management to grow them into thriving, sustainable enterprises - thereby creating shareholder value. We partner with highly motivated management teams to design and implement strategic and operational changes with the objective of taking these businesses to the next level of growth and beyond. And we align our interests with other stakeholders by putting our own capital at risk."

KKR's website goes on to say that the private equities division specializes in 14 primary industry groups including transportation.

Harley-Davidson spokesman Bob Klein says the company does not comment on markets or speculation.

Calls to Kohlberg Kravis Roberts & Co.'s pr firm have not been returned.

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