Tariffs, Valuations, And The Dealer Future

Inside Automotive with Jim Fitzpatrick, powered by CBT News

We unpack how tariffs and interest rates truly affect buy-sells, why consolidation is accelerating in key metros, and how OEM image programs are reshaping valuations and deal strategy. Erin Kerrigan shares data on cash-rich buyers, regional concentration, and the path to a 50% revenue tipping point.
• tariffs showing limited impact on buy-sells
• domestics gaining demand and market share
• valuations buffered by tight spreads and cash reserves
• consolidation advancing faster in growth metros
• bidder lists constrained by OEM approval thresholds
• portfolio optimization and regional chessboard strategies
• fewer IPOs offset by private capital and bonds
• image programs inflating capex and pressuring returns
• franchise laws and dealer advocacy as valuation backstop
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1. Tariffs, Valuations, And The Dealer Future (00:00:00)

2. Setting The Buy-Sell Stage (00:00:09)

3. Tariffs’ Real Impact On Dealers (00:00:45)

4. Domestic Brands Gain Buy-Sell Share (00:03:44)

5. Valuations Versus Interest Rate Moves (00:04:54)

6. Cash-Rich Buyers And Tight Spreads (00:06:49)

7. Measuring Consolidation’s Next Inning (00:08:14)

8. Regional Markets Already Concentrated (00:10:24)

9. OEM Approval And Market Limits (00:12:01)

10. From Checkers To Chess In Growth (00:13:26)

11. Why More Groups Aren’t Going Public (00:15:25)

12. Bond Markets And Private Capital (00:17:06)

13. OEM Image Programs Hit Valuations (00:18:11)

14. Closing Thoughts And Thanks (00:19:26)