In early May 2020, Daniel Loeb's team at Third Point was evaluating a potential growth opportunity in the Walt Disney Company and whether investor activism might play a role. Battered by the effects of COVID-19, the company's stock had initially tumbled to $86 and then somewhat recovered to $110. This case explores the headwinds and tailwinds of Disney's ability to flesh out value for investors, including the growth of its Disney+ platform and the recovery of its theme parks. A supplementary case detailing Third Point's ultimate decision and its aftermath is also available.

In March 2020, the global pandemic was delivering a dose of volatility to the US economy. Catherine Faddis, the CIO of Grace Capital, a Boston-based long-only equity manager, analyzed movements in her portfolio while eyeing previously shelved opportunities to invest in preferred stock. The case explores the characteristics of preferred stock, the investment philosophy and strategy of Grace Capital, and the decision making process behind the team at the fundamentals-based investment fund.