In This Article:
Brancous’ misleading accusations are not constructive and could negatively impact the Company’s business
Blackwells encourages all Braemar shareholders to support the enhanced Board and management team
NEW YORK, Oct. 29, 2024 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- 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.