Highlights:
- Portfolio outperformed the MSCI EM and EM Growth Indices in Q1
- Cautious optimism lifted emerging markets in Q1. Semis, Tech Hardware, and Media & Entertainment stocks performed best, a relative headwind for the portfolio, while weakness in Utilities and Energy stocks supported relative returns given our lack of exposure
- MercadoLibre, FEMSA, and Wal-Mart de Mexico contributed most positively to returns, while XP, JD.com, and CP All detracted the most
- There were no full position changes during the quarter. We trimmed the position in MercadoLibre on strength and added to positions in Bud APAC, FEMSA, and JD.com
- Portfolio remains well-positioned to deliver attractive, above-average growth in earnings and cash flows over the coming three years
The opinions expressed herein reflect the opinions of Sustainable Growth Advisers, LP and are subject to change without notice. Past performance is no guarantee for future results. This information is supplemental and complements a GIPS Report that can be found with composite performance. The largest contributors and detractors are determined using a ranking of the absolute contribution to portfolio return by each security held over the period under consideration. The securities referenced in the article are not a solicitation or recommendation to buy, sell or hold securities. This commentary is provided only for qualified and sophisticated institutional investors.
Results are presented gross and net of management fees and include the reinvestment of all income. The Net Returns are calculated based upon the highest published fees. The net performance has been reduced by the amount of the highest published fee that may be charged to SGA clients, 0.85%, employing the Emerging Markets Growth equity strategy during the period under consideration. Actual fees charged to clients may vary depending on, among other things, the applicable fees schedule and portfolio size. SGA’s fees are available upon request and also may be found in Part 2A of its Form ADV. Upon request, free of charge, SGA can provide a list of all portfolio holdings held in SGA’s Emerging Markets portfolio for the past year. Policies for valuing investments, calculating performance, and preparing GIPS Reports are available upon request. SGA earnings growth forecasts are based upon portfolio companies’ non GAAP operating earnings. SGA Emerging Markets Growth Composite inception is 8/1/2014. Past performance is not indicative of future results.