Investment Banker Evaluates Effects of Composites on Aerospace and Defense M&A


COSTA MESA, Calif., Aug. 3, 2006 (PRIMEZONE) -- Advances in composite technologies will continue to drive change in the aerospace defense industry, according to Trevor Bohn, vice president of RSM EquiCo Capital Markets LLC, the broker-dealer subsidiary of RSM EquiCo.

Bohn shared his outlook for the $24 billion (USD) composites aerostructure market with High-Performance Composites, an industry magazine published by CompositesWorld.com (www.compositesworld.com). Among a broad range of topics, Bohn also addressed market influences ranging from industry fragmentation and consolidation to valuations and the competition between strategic and private equity buyers for acquisitions. (Click here to view the complete article: http://www.compositesworld.com/hpc/issues/2006/July/1368/1)

Among Bohn's comments:


 -- "This explosion in the number of composites applications, coupled
    with more technological advancements than ever estimated, has
    fueled industry growth.  In fact, the general consensus among
    analysts is that the market for composite aerostructures is
    projected to grow at 11.2 percent annually over the next five
    years ..."

 -- "When attractive industry dynamics couple with easily accessible
    capital markets, one side effect is that many subsectors see
    company valuations increase significantly -- some to all-time
    highs."

 -- "Today, there are an unprecedented number of new platforms,
    ranging from commercial and military aircraft to land and naval
    systems -- all with increased composite structure content.  For
    example, the Boeing 787 aircraft is estimated to have nearly
    50 percent of its weight comprised of composite structures
    compared to only about five percent for the 747-400.  The new
    platforms offer multiple opportunities to implement this strategy
    (combine numerous components into a single subassembly)."

"While conditions like these can sometimes make it more difficult for smaller companies to compete for acquisitions, it's also often an ideal time for them to consider a sale or divestiture. Our experienced, industry-focused dealmakers help businesses achieve the results that best meet their strategic needs," said Bohn.

About RSM EquiCo Capital Markets

RSM EquiCo Capital Markets (www.rsmequico.com) is a global provider of investment banking services to private companies with annual revenues of up to $500 million. The firm brings together companies, capital and creativity on a national and international scale to help clients achieve their personal and strategic objectives. RSM EquiCo Capital Markets LLC is licensed by the SEC and all state securities authorities, and is a member of the NASD and SIPC.

RSM EquiCo Capital Markets, a subsidiary of RSM EquiCo Inc., is part of RSM McGladrey Inc., one of the nation's largest providers of business and tax consulting, wealth management, retirement resources and payroll services to midsized companies.

The firm's international headquarters are located in Costa Mesa, California. It also has offices in Chicago, Boston, New York and London.

RSM EquiCo is a tradename for RSM EquiCo, Inc. and its subsidiaries, which include: RSM EquiCo Capital Markets, LLC (broker-dealer licensed by the SEC and member NASD, SIPC), RSM EquiCo Canada, Inc. (limited market dealer registered with the Ontario Securities Commission) and EquiCo Europe Limited (authorised and regulated by the Financial Services Authority). RSM EquiCo, Inc. and its subsidiaries are wholly owned subsidiaries of H&R Block.



            

Contact Data