Blackwells Capital Calls on Brancous to End its Alarmist Attacks on Braemar
October 29 2024 - 4:29PM
Blackwells Capital LLC (“Blackwells”), a shareholder of Braemar
Hotels & Resorts Inc. (“Braemar” or the “Company”) (NYSE: BHR),
today released a letter to its fellow Braemar shareholders:
The full text of the letter follows:
Dear Fellow Braemar Shareholders,
Over the past months, Blackwells Capital, in its
capacity as an engaged shareholder of Braemar Hotels & Resorts
(“Braemar” or the “Company”), exchanged views with the board of
directors (the “Board”) and management of Braemar. Blackwells’
concerns were heard by Braemar, and Blackwells was pleased to enter
into a constructive agreement with the Company, reflective of its
confidence in the Board and management team to drive value for all
shareholders.
Recently, another shareholder, Brancous LP1
(“Brancous”) has issued several public letters to Braemar. While
Brancous is free to have its say as a shareholder of the Company,
we believe its accusations and inferences are increasingly alarmist
in nature, and without merit. Left uncorrected, Blackwells is
concerned these accusations could have a negative impact on
Braemar’s business.
Brancous’ latest letter dated October 22, 2024
appears to be a regurgitation of false claims made by a disgruntled
hotel union. We believe it is irresponsible to peddle such
misinformation, and, in particular, highlight the recklessness of
stating that a lawsuit was filed against Braemar when no such thing
happened.
Contrary to Brancous’ misstatements, Ashford Inc
has stated publicly that Braemar has received an official private
letter ruling from the Internal Revenue Service regarding its
structure and operating relationship with Remington Hospitality,
providing assurance of its proper REIT compliance. We question
Brancous’ claim that “No other REIT operates in this manner,” and
believe that it demonstrates a lack of knowledge of the REIT
space.
Further, Brancous’ missives about the Braemar
Board ignore the recent appointment of Jay Shah. Mr. Shah is a
seasoned hospitality and real estate executive and joined the Board
as an independent director. Blackwells believes that Mr. Shah
brings an infusion of skills, experience and fresh expertise to
Braemar. Blackwells strenuously objects to Brancous’ attacks which
oddly single out Braemar independent director, Stefani Carter.
Blackwells has had the opportunity to meet with Ms. Carter and
believes she is an effective and independent fiduciary for
shareholders, with an esteemed professional
background.
Brancous closes its October 22, 2024 letter
noting that “BHR has incredible potential...” Blackwells agrees
with that assessment wholeheartedly. Brancous’ hyperbolic attacks,
however, are not constructive, and could unjustly hurt the Company
and its prospects.
Blackwells calls on Brancous and all
shareholders to join us in voting in favor of the enhanced Board
and management team as they unlock value for all shareholders.
Sincerely,
Jason Aintabi Chief Investment OfficerBlackwells
Capital
About Blackwells Capital
Blackwells is a multi-strategy alternative asset
management firm that invests in public and private markets
globally. Our public markets portfolio focuses on currencies,
equities, credit and commodities. When necessary, we engage with
public company boards to drive value for all stakeholders. Our
private markets portfolio includes investments in space, clean
energy, infrastructure, real estate and technology. Further
information is available at www.blackwellscap.com.
Media Gagnier Communications Dan Gagnier &
Riyaz Lalani 646-569-5897 blackwells@gagnierfc.com
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