15 Most Feared Activist Hedge Funds

9. Ancora Holdings

Portfolio Size: $4.40 Billion

Ancora Holdings is one of the most significant hedge funds that engage in activist investments to unlock optimum value from its holdings. It operates as an investment advisory firm providing services through various investment advisers, including Ancora Advisors, Ancora Alternatives LLC, and Ancora Family Wealth Advisors LLC.

Over several years, the hedge fund has increased its involvement by acquiring significant stakes in more prominent firms like Norfolk Southern Corporation (NYSE:NSC), often below 5%. The alternatives team is known for its history of engaging in both private and when needed, public interactions with the companies in its portfolio to drive enhancements in corporate governance and the creation of long-term value. The hedge fund’s strategy in activist investment focuses on pushing for management changes in companies in which it gets involved as at Norfolk Southern Corporation (NYSE:NSC).

While controlling a portfolio worth $4.4 billion, the hedge fund primarily invests in services, technology, and basic material stocks. Its most recent activist campaigns have been at Elanco Animal Health Incorporated (NYSE:ELAN), where it has secured two seats on the board as part of its campaigns. With the two board seats, the activist hedge fund is pushing for the Chief executive officer’s resignation over poor performance over the past few years. It has also waged a campaign at rail giant Norfolk Southern Corporation (NYSE:NSC), whereby it has nominated three directors as it seeks to take control.