America’s Car-Mart Promotes Positive Spin on Declining Numbers
America's Car Mart reported declining revenue and earnings for quarter ending in July. Officials said company put emphasis on improved underwriting and collections, resulting in lower numbers. Stressed that the strategy will help Car-Mart avoid bad-debt problems.
Salesperson Influence Big Factor in Selection of CPO Vehicle
The salesperson is key in influencing both customer consideration of and satisfaction with certified pre-owned vehicles, according to the J.D. Power 2007 Used-Vehicle Sales and Certification Study. The study is now in its sixth year. It measures factors contributing to customer satisfaction with certified pre-owned vehicles: price; salesperson; vehicle condition; financing and insurance process; certified pre-owned (CPO) vehicle program features; inventory; and delivery.
GE-Blackstone Acquisition of PHH May be Victim of Subprime Crisis
More ramifications of mortgage mess for deal by GE and Blackstone Group where GE acquires PHH Corp fleet-management business, then sells its mortgage operations unit to the Blackstone Group. Blackstone may not get the $750 million financing originally promised by JPMorgan Chase and Lehman Brothers.
Ford Eyes More Cost Cuts; Much Rides on Revamped Focus
Ford may have to cut costs even further if the economy continues to slow, says Americas president Mark Fields. Meanwhile, Ford is hoping for buyer enthusiasm for new Focus with "sync" software partnered with Microsoft adding voice control to music players and phones.
