Bryant Riley, chairman of B. Riley Financial, expressed deep regret over the collapse of Franchise Group Inc., a company in which B. Riley held a significant stake following a $2.8 billion buyout. The bankruptcy of Franchise Group resulted in a $120 million impairment for B. Riley, adding to previous writedowns of up to $370 million.
The article discusses the benefits of investing in dividend-paying securities to achieve financial independence and a comfortable retirement. It highlights two undervalued picks: Verizon Communications Inc. (VZ) with a 6.5% yield and B. Riley Financial, Inc. (RILY) with baby bonds and preferred stock offering up to 8.8% yields. The strategy focuses on generating a reliable income stream through dividends, which can be reinvested to grow wealth and provide substantial passive income over time.