Why Avis and Hertz Stocks Jumped Wednesday

Why Avis and Hertz Stocks Jumped Wednesday

Shares of Avis Budget Group (NASDAQ: CAR) and bankrupt rival Hertz (NYSE: HTZ) jumped 11% and 8%, respectively, on Wednesday after news that Melvin Capital Management had opened up a position in Avis. Riding alongside the late-afternoon broader market rally, Avis stock jumped double digits after Melvin Capital disclosed a 5.8% stake in the rental company. It's been a common theme among investors and analysts that Avis will benefit from the Hertz bankruptcy once travel and transportation demand returns, assuming the COVID-19 pandemic will eventually be under control.