Proposed Acquisition of SWS Group, Inc. by Hilltop Holdings, Inc. May Not Be in Shareholders' Best Interests

SAN DIEGO and DALLAS, Jan. 13, 2014 /PRNewswire/ -- Shareholder rights attorneys at Robbins Arroyo LLP are investigating the proposed acquisition of SWS Group, Inc. (NYSE: SWS) ("SWS") by Hilltop Holdings, Inc. (NYSE:HTH) ("Hilltop").  On January 10, 2014, Hilltop submitted a written proposal to the board of directors of SWS to acquire all of the outstanding shares of SWS that Hilltop does not already own for $7.00 per share in 50% cash and 50% Hilltop common stock.

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Is the Proposed Acquisition Best for SWS and Its Shareholders?

Robbins Arroyo LLP's investigation focuses on whether the board of directors at SWS is undertaking a fair process to obtain maximum value and adequately compensate SWS shareholders. Specifically, the investigation concerns whether the SWS board will conduct an adequate auction process in order to maximize shareholder value, due to the close relationship between both companies. Not only does Hilltop currently own 24% of SWS common stock, but Hilltop's Chairman, Gerald J. Ford, is a member of the SWS board of directors. Moreover, Hilltop's President and Chief Executive Officer, Jeremy B. Ford, was made a non-voting observer to the SWS board.

Given these facts, Robbins Arroyo LLP is examining whether the SWS board of directors will appropriately consider the proposal from Hilltop at arm's length or whether they are seeking to benefit themselves rather than allow shareholders to continue to participate in the company's continued success and future growth prospects. 

SWS shareholders have the option to file a class action lawsuit to ensure the board of directors obtains the best possible price for shareholders and the disclosure of material information.  SWS shareholders interested in information about their rights and potential remedies can contact attorney Darnell R. Donahue at [phone], [e-mail], or via the shareholder information form on the firm's website.

Robbins Arroyo LLP is a nationally recognized leader in securities litigation and shareholder rights law.  The law firm represents individual and institutional investors in shareholder derivative and securities class action lawsuits, and has helped its clients realize more than $1 billion of value for themselves and the companies in which they have invested.   

Attorney Advertising. Past results do not guarantee a similar outcome.  

Contact: Darnell R. Donahue
Robbins Arroyo LLP
[e-mail] 
[phone] or Toll Free [phone]
www.robbinsarroyo.com 

SOURCE Robbins Arroyo LLP

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