[UPDATE] Enhabit to Continue Operating as Independent Entity

Enhabit, Inc. (NYSE: EHAB) has announced that it will not be pursuing a sale and will continue to operate as a stand-alone company following a strategic review process. The decision comes after the company considered alternatives such as a merger or sale, but ultimately received no formal proposals for a transaction.

CEO Barbara Jacobsmeyer cited slow progress on the company’s goals as a reason for the review, which began last August. The review focused heavily on a potential sale, but macro headwinds and uncertain regulatory developments ultimately stifled possibilities for a transaction that would enhance shareholder value.

Enhabit Board Chair Leo Higdon stated, “the best way to enhance shareholder value at this time is to continue to operate as a stand-alone business.” More details on the company’s decision may come during its first-quarter earnings call on Thursday.

In Q4 2023, Enhabit brought in $260.6 million, with net service revenues for the hospice segment rising 7.8% to over $58 million compared to the prior year’s quarter. The strategic review was prompted by a push from minority investor AREX Capital Management, which holds about 4.5% of Enhabit’s shares.

Despite the decision not to pursue a sale, Enhabit’s management team remains focused on operating the company’s core businesses. Jacobsmeyer expressed confidence in the company’s strategy and team, stating that they are taking the right steps to drive future growth and increase shareholder value.