Investigation & litigation timeline
Pomerantz LLPâs notice does not specify a target completion date, but in comparable shareholderâclassâaction investigations the factâfinding phase usually runs 4âŻââŻ8âŻweeks from the firmâs receipt of the complaint. Once the investigative report is finalized, the next step is filing a formal securitiesâfraud complaint with the U.S. District Court, which typically occurs within 1â2âŻmonths after the investigation closes.
From filing to the first courtâmotion (e.g., a motion to dismiss or a request for classâcertification) the docket in NewâŻYork federal courts averages 3âŻââŻ6âŻmonths. If the case proceeds to a full trial, the schedule can extend to 12â18âŻmonths from filing, though most shareholder suits settle well before trialâoften within 6â9âŻmonths after the complaint is lodged.
Trading implications
- Shortâterm (0â4âŻweeks): Expect modest volatility as investors digest the investigationâs existence. The stock may see a 2â3âŻ% downside pressure on the news, especially if the market perceives a material risk of a classâaction settlement.
- Midâterm (1â3âŻmonths): As the investigation concludes and a complaint is filed, the market will price in the probability of a settlement versus prolonged litigation. If the filing is without a disclosed settlement amount, the stock could rebound 1â2âŻ% on the ânoâbadânewsâyetâ narrative, but any hint of a large exposure will reignite the sellâoff.
- Longâterm (6â12âŻmonths): Should the case move toward settlement, the price impact will be limited to the disclosed settlement size. A modest settlement (â€âŻ$50âŻM) is unlikely to materially move the stock beyond the shortâterm swing. A substantial settlement (>$150âŻM) would trigger a more pronounced correction, potentially 5â7âŻ% lower than current levels.
Actionable takeâaway: Keep a tight stopâloss (ââŻ3âŻ% below current price) for the next 4â6âŻweeks while the investigation unfolds. If a complaint is filed and no settlement terms are disclosed, consider a partialâposition reduction to hedge against the 3â6âmonth litigation window, but avoid a full exit unless settlement details emerge that materially alter the companyâs cashâflow outlook.