Highlights:
- The portfolio generated strong absolute returns and outperformed the MSCI All Country World Mid Cap Index as equity markets struggled amid the COVID-19 pandemic and associated economic dislocations
- Strong relative performance in 2020 has been driven by stock selection as well as positive sector allocation effects. Security selection within the Consumer Discretionary sector contributed the most
- Stock selection in the Consumer Staples and Materials sectors detracted from performance; selection across all other sectors contributed positively
- New positions in Match Group, Kansas City Southern, Kakao, Alcon, Steris, WuXi Biologics, EPAM Systems, and XP were initiated. Existing positions in Vail Resorts, Dollarama, Ulta Beauty, Shiseido, and Shopify were sold
- The portfolio is expected to generate revenue and earnings growth greater than the MSCI ACWI Mid Cap Index over the coming three years, with greater predictability and sustainability
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 full disclosure presentation that can be found with composite performance. 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, 1.00%, employing the Global Mid Cap 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. 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. Upon request, free of charge, SGA can provide a list of all portfolio holdings held in SGA’s Global Mid Cap Growth portfolio for the year. Policies for valuing portfolios, calculating performance, and preparing compliant presentations are available upon request. SGA’s earnings growth forecast data is based upon portfolio companies’ Non-GAAP operating earnings.