Mattel

Shareholders including Ariel Investments and Southeastern Asset Management are urging Mattel to consider strategic alternatives — from selling assets to a full sale or merger — after takeover interest from Authentic Brands Group valuing the company above $6 billion. Incoming chairman and CEO Roger Lynch inherits a turnaround task as Mattel reported a second-quarter $18 million net loss, with Barbie gross billings down 16% and margins weakening despite overall sales growth. The board may launch a formal review while Mattel weighs whether independent restructuring, asset sales or a bid would unlock greater value given its portfolio and $2.33 billion of long-term debt. » More on forbes.com

Mattel shares climbed as much as nearly 20% after Authentic Brands Group reportedly considered a takeover and internally discussed an offer of over $20 per share, which would value Mattel at about $6 billion. Industry insiders confirm early talks, and neither company commented officially. The speculation comes amid a leadership change at Mattel: Roger Lynch will become CEO later this year; the announcement had briefly weighed on the stock. Investors should remain cautious due to the early stage of negotiations and the risk that talks could fail. » More on deraktionaer.de

Mattel shares rose nearly 20% after reports that Authentic Brands Group has privately discussed an offer that could value the company at more than $20 per share, or roughly $6 billion. A person familiar with the matter said talks are preliminary and Authentic Brands has not commented. The report came a day after Mattel announced Condé Nast CEO Roger Lynch will become chairman on Oct. 2 and CEO by Nov. 2. » More on cnbc.com