Portfolio manager comments — Q3 2025
The fund posted a gain during the period but underperformed its benchmark, the SIX Sweden SRI Gross Index.
The largest negative contributors to performance were Novo Nordisk, Thule, and Essity. Novo Nordisk came under pressure from concerns over potential U.S. regulatory initiatives aimed at lowering drug prices, as well as increased availability of lower priced alternatives with similar effects, so called compounders. The company also issued a profit warning ahead of its half year report, further weighing on its share price. Thule faced weaker demand conditions, particularly from North American distributors, while Essity underperformed due to low volume growth.
The strongest positive contributors were Sandvik, Hexagon, and SEB. Sandvik performed well following a quarterly report showing solid order intake within the mining segment. Hexagon rose after divesting part of its business at an attractive multiple, and SEB performed in line with the broader banking sector.
During the period, the fund increased exposure to more late cyclical companies such as Atlas Copco and ABB, while reducing its holding in the more short cyclical Sandvik. The position in Handelsbanken was exited, as the stock is considered to be trading at a premium relative to its historical valuation.
The fund maintains its focus on companies with sustainable business models and competitive offerings, with the aim of generating sustainable, profitable growth over time.