10bagger, Mike, et al,
Sure could use some clarity as to whether it was forced (i.e. the seller would have gone under otherise), or whether AUTO thought this was a good, accretive fit.
IMO, some of the evidence provided gives the forced scenario a bit higher probablility. AUTO was getting well over 10% in interest on the $9 plus million owed to them by the seller, so they will lose that income, and of course that $9 million asset is lost. In return they get the biz, but at least in the latest period it was stated in the 8k that the seller had a loss. And AUTO (as per the 8k) was getting 25% of pretax income greater than zero from the seller prior to this transaction.
A listing of the value of assets/liabilities acquired would certainly be helpful, especially the a/r and a/p (if those are part of the deal).
One other thing, the deal wont effect the current reporting quarter...and they should put up strong numbers in a little while.
Anyway, good luck.