MDC Financial Research's Michael Cohen post-closing arguments update on $JBLU / $SAVE merger trial

Michael D. Cohen, CEO & Director of Research at MDC Financial Research, LLC, joins the podcast for the second time to share his thoughts on the JetBlue $JBLU / Spirit Airlines $SAVE merger trial now that closing arguments have been made. Known for their “Event-Driven Legal” investment-research, Michael Cohen and his team follow significant legal disputes and are closely watching the $JBLU / $SAVE case. For more information about MDC Financial Research, please visit: https://mdcfinancial.com/ For more on the SAVE / JBLU trial, see podcast #204, Michael's first appearance: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=BFN_iXHdF78 Chapters: [0:00] Introduction + Episode sponsor: Alphasense [1:41] Update since half-time report: overall thoughts on trial now that we have had closing arguments - $JBLU / $SAVE merger trial [3:55] $JBLU / $SAVE merger trial closing arguments [11:04] Feel for how Judge is likely to craft opinion on the case [14:20] Potential additional remedies to get merger over the hurdle [17:02] Market definition and timing of the deal (how does this affect consumers) [23:41] Step 3: the burden of proof from the DOJ, showing there is harm to consumers [24:32] Cont'd: timing of the deal (how does this affect consumers [27:51] United Airlines testimony [35:03] Commentary on Spirit's survivability if merger doesn't go through [41:38] JetBlue's second expert witness [43:43] Dr. Chipley's testimony [45:54] Closing arguments cont'd: competition be preserved [48:02] Closing arguments cont'd: balance of nationwide benefit vs. local harm [52:28] Main divergence of opinion based on being in the courtroom [56:52] Hot docs [59:05] Odds of merger going through closes vs. failing vs. re-pricing Today's episode is sponsored by: Alphasense This episode is brought to you by AlphaSense, the AI platform behind the world's biggest investment decisions. The right financial intelligence platform can make or break your quarter. AlphaSense is the #1 rated financial research solution by G2. With AI search technology and a library of premium content, you can stay ahead of key macroeconomic trends and accelerate your investment research efforts. AI capabilities, like Smart Synonyms and Sentiment Analysis, provide even deeper industry and company analysis. AlphaSense gives you the tools you need to provide better analysis for you and your clients. As a Yet Another Value Podcast listener, visit alpha-sense.com/fs today to beat FOMO and move faster than the market.