Portfolio manager comments — Q3 2024
Fund performance was largely unchanged during Q3. The holdings with the strongest contribution to returns included Assa Abloy, which has posted strength in the wake of a more positive sentiment related to the construction sector following the announcement of lower interest rates, as well as Essity, following the strong results reported for Q2 with higher than expected margins. AstraZeneca also contributed positively after positive study results and a favorable climate for defensive companies overall. Hexagon had the most negative impact on fund returns after reporting weaker than expected results due to exposure to the automotive sector. Autoliv also posted weakness on the back of the same theme and has also had to struggle with its product mix. SEB also had a negative impact due to lower interest rates. During the quarter the fund increased the holdings in Thule, Sampo, Volvo AB and in banks. The fund also sold the holding in Lifco due to a high valuation, together with cyclical exposure. We also decreased the holding in Autoliv as a result of the current uncertainty prevailing within the automotive industry.
In the upcoming reporting period we will continue to focus on investee companies that have sustainable business models and competitive offers with sustainable growth even in a weaker economy.