Portfolio manager comments — Q1 2025
Fund performance was positive during Q1 2025 and the fund rose just over 1% in SEK. Strong equity markets were balanced off by weaker currencies against the SEK. Among the key currencies, the Mexican peso in particular weakened against the SEK. However, the most important currencies strengthened relative to the USD in the period.
As in the previous quarter, much of the focus was on the political developments in the region, as well as in the US. The market has been tossed between hope and despair since President Trump took office. However, what we understand as of the end of the first quarter is that Mexico thus far appears to be managing relatively well regarding tariffs from the US. Products with origins within USMCA, such as cars, have also been exempted so far.
The political concerns in Brazil have decreased slightly and led to a slight rebound in the market. Among the strongest equities was the stock exchange operator B3, which is seeing some optimism despite further low volumes. Many are now expecting interest rates to begin to fall, which could stimulate the market. During the quarter the company could also reverse a larger reservation related to an ongoing legal case, which gave the equity an extra boost. The home builder Cury also continued to have positive operational growth and posted strength in the market during the quarter.
The weakest contributors to returns were the Mexican companies Vesta and Fragua. Vesta has industrial real estate parks where the economic development is slowing down the expansion phase and is making rental activities more difficult. Fragua has not met expectations and has been affected by weaker consumers in the country, and the stock has continued to decline from very high levels.
The fund is thematically managed and focuses on stable companies that we believe will have a positive impact on the communities in which they are active.