Q2 was an eventful quarter. Global interest rates have fluctuated and several central banks began their phase of rate cuts. Inflation and the measures taken by the central banks have had an impact on the financial markets.
In April, the focus of discussions was on whether or not the US central bank, the Fed, would cut its key rate in 2024, given that the US inflation rate is being more persistent than expected. This led to upturns in interest rates and weak stock markets. At the same time, geopolitical tensions continued in the Middle East.
However, the situation quickly changed and risk sentiment improved at the beginning of May. Fed chief Powell indicated that it is unlikely that the next policy rate move for the Fed will be a rate hike, which increased market expectations for a soft landing in the economy. The Riksbank chose to be one of the first central banks within G10 to cut its key rate, which was the first cut since 2016. The European Central Bank, ECB, followed with a cut in June. The credit markets have been functioning well and the market for new issues has been very active throughout the entire quarter.
Fund duration has been neutral to long during these significant rate movements. The fund’s selection of bonds was the strongest contributor to returns relative to its benchmark index. Companies such as Castellum, Telefonica and Kojamo were the strongest contributors. We also chose to sell a number of holdings, such as the Spanish bank Banco Credito Social, that have tightened to a great extent and instead made new investments in YIT and EDP.