Portfolio manager comments — Q3 2024
Fund performance was positive and the fund rose 6.5% in SEK during Q3. In general, the company reports were stronger than previously, with an average result that exceeded expectations. Several segments contributed strongly to performance, most notably companies that contribute with efficiencies within industrials as well as wind power companies, while segments for solar energy posted weakness. Enovix, a pioneer within batteries related to energy density, was the strongest performer in the period. The company has begun scaling up its battery production and announced that they have concluded agreements with a number of major customers. Cadeler, which installs offshore wind turbines, and TSMC, a world leader within the development of semiconductors, were also strong contributors. On the negative side was Array, which manufactures solar tracking systems for solar power plants. Despite a strong report, the equity has been volatile due to concerns about project delays. The salmon company Bakkafrost and Shoals, a developer of electrical systems for solar power plants, also posted weakness.
The rapidly growing usage of AI and the extensive expansion of data centers with high capacity is an area that has received increased attention and results in greater demands on electrical energy. This has highlighted the need for strengthening the electrical grid and infrastructure, as well as enhancing the energy capacity from cost-effective energy sources like solar and wind power that can be expanded rapidly. The fund has dozens of investments that benefit in particular from this trend and these positions were increased slightly during the period.
The fund also changed its benchmark index to one that more effectively reflects the trends within the segment without impacting the fund management, focus or the long-term ambitions.