Portfolio manager comments — Q3 2025
During the third quarter, the Swedish and Nordic credit markets continued to exhibit stability despite a somewhat weaker economic environment and heightened geopolitical concerns. Volatility receded from the elevated levels seen in the prior quarter, which, combined with strong market demand, contributed to narrower credit spreads. This provided a significant boost to the fund’s positive returns.
The Riksbank reduced the repo rate to 1.75% in an effort to stimulate the economy, which also supports credit sentiment. Meanwhile, the U.S. economy continued to show resilience, even as the labor market slowdown became increasingly evident during the quarter. The inflationary impact of tariffs remains uncertain.
The new issuance market was robust, particularly in late August and mid-September. Despite high issuance volumes, demand outstripped supply, helping maintain stable spread levels. However, we hold a somewhat cautious outlook on risk sentiment, as risk premiums remain relatively low even though yields are still attractive. Our focus on quality and liquidity remains intact, with an overweight in the banking and financial sectors, as well as companies with high credit quality and low ESG risks. At the same time, we avoid companies and sectors with high refinancing risks.
During the quarter, the fund participated in a significant number of new issuances from, among others, DNB, Nordea, Industrivärden, SCA, Scania, Länsförsäkringar Bank, Kraftringen, Hexagon, and Electrolux. Additionally, we increased certain existing holdings in the secondary market as new issuance activity tapered off.
At the quarter’s end, the fund held an essentially neutral interest rate duration, with a slightly longer spread duration primarily within the higher credit rating categories.