Asbury Automotive Group Reveals Plan for CEO Transition
Leadership Transition: David Hult will transition to Executive Chairman after serving as CEO of Asbury Automotive Group for eight years, with Dan Clara, the current COO, set to succeed him as President and CEO following the 2026 Annual Meeting of Stockholders.
Board Changes: Bridget Ryan-Berman will be appointed as Lead Independent Director, and Tom Reddin's term as Chairman will expire at the same meeting, although he is expected to remain on the Board.
Hult's Achievements: During Hult's tenure, Asbury experienced significant growth, tripling earnings and increasing shareholder value, with a stock price rise of 273%.
Clara's Background: Dan Clara has over 23 years of experience at Asbury, holding various leadership roles, and is recognized for his operational excellence and contributions to the company's growth and guest-centric approach.
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U.S. Retail Sales Rise 0.6% Month-over-Month in November
- Retail Sales Growth: According to the U.S. Census Bureau, retail sales rose 0.6% month-over-month in November and were up 3.3% year-over-year, exceeding economists' expectations of 0.4%, indicating consumer spending resilience that could positively impact GDP.
- Strong Clothing Sales: Clothing stores saw a 7.5% year-over-year increase, providing positive signals for mall retailers like Gap and Urban Outfitters, suggesting enhanced consumer potential during the holiday season.
- Outstanding Nonstore Retail Performance: The nonstore retail category outperformed with a 7.2% year-over-year increase in November, crucial for e-commerce players like Amazon and Wayfair, reflecting strong demand during the holiday shopping season.
- Underperformance in Auto Dealers: The auto dealer group experienced a 1.1% year-over-year decline in November, indicating challenges for the sector that may affect the performance of related companies.

Abacus Group Opens Abu Dhabi Office to Expand UAE Presence
- Market Expansion: Abacus has opened a new office in the Abu Dhabi Global Market (ADGM), marking the second phase of its strategic growth in the UAE, aimed at better serving clients across the Middle East.
- Enhanced Service Capabilities: The new office will deliver a full suite of managed IT, multi-cloud, and cybersecurity services, including the market-leading abacusFlex solution, helping clients meet ADGM regulations and strengthen cybersecurity defenses.
- Regulatory Environment Advantage: The UAE's world-class regulatory framework provides a strong foundation for regulated entities, attracting both emerging managers and established global firms, further driving Abacus's business growth.
- Local Expertise Support: Abacus will leverage its local expertise and on-the-ground support in Abu Dhabi to enhance collaboration with regulators and improve threat intelligence sharing capabilities to address evolving cybersecurity threats.






