Portfolio manager comments — Q2 2025
Fund performance was positive and rose by just over 3% in SEK during the second quarter, while the benchmark index* increased by 1.6%.
The equity market reacted positively as US tariffs appeared to be less extensive than previously feared. In addition, the Riksbank cut its policy rate toward the end of the period and signaled that further cuts may be possible later in the year, which boosted risk appetite.
Among the fund’s top contributors were Asker Healthcare, Asmodee, Biotage and Synsam. Asker, a distribution company, was listed in March and received a warm welcome from investors. Asmodee, a board game company, rose sharply after reporting strong organic growth for Q1. Biotage benefited from a takeover bid by private equity firm KKR, while Synsam performed strongly after CVC unexpectedly sold its remaining stake in the company.
Holdings that negatively impacted relative performance included AFRY, Swedbank, Sectra, and Vimian. AFRY delivered a weak Q1 report, while Vimian declined without any specific news. Swedbank and Sectra, which are part of the index but not held in the fund, performed strongly and thus negatively affected the fund’s relative performance.
The fund’s largest investments during the period included EQT, ABB, Balder, and Beijer Ref. The largest divestments were in Assa Abloy, Securitas, Biotage, Husqvarna, and Volvo.
The fund’s composition remained largely unchanged during the quarter and continues to be positioned for an improved economic outlook toward the end of the year, as well as revaluations of growth companies – particularly among small and mid-sized firms.
* SIX SRI Sweden Index GI