Summary
While it is certainly fair to call Chrysler's deal with Fiat a “last resort”, basing this decision on the two companies questionable past may not be the proper emphasis as they go forward. In particular, from Wall Street’s point of view.
Analysis
This “last resort” could be the savior of thousands of American jobs.
Sometimes it doesn’t seem to register with business experts just how many people can be affected by a company such as Chrysler. So much attention is given the UAW or health insurance when the long line of companies that produce the technology, design of / or supply of parts and services seem to go unnoticed. Our economy depends on it.
If Fiat approaches their ownership in Chrysler the same way they did their own cars when they were sold in the USA years ago, then they are doomed. On the other hand, if they approach this deal with the understanding that Chrysler must compete on a "world class" basis, then survival becomes quite realistic.
The new administration along with Fiat and Chrysler's leaders are carving out a new path to survival. Down that path, they must produce competitive, environmentally efficient vehicles built with world class quality. Most important yet, products the American people want to drive. If they can’t achieve that, then the concept of these companies past or future truly becomes mute point... and so does the economy.
