Highlights:
- The portfolio returned 8.2% (Gross) and 8.0% (Net) in Q2 versus 12.8% for the Russell 1000 Growth Index and 8.7% for the S&P 500 Index
- Strong performance by the largest seven companies in the index accounted for more than half of the portfolio’s relative underperformance
- Higher growth expectations in Technology and related stocks led to higher valuations despite a small increase in bond yields
- We initiated positions in UnitedHealth and Aon and the portfolio’s position in FleetCor was sold on strength due to forced attrition while Intuitive was sold due to valuation
- Portfolio revenues and earnings are expected to grow by 10.5% and 17.6% respectively over the next three years versus 5.8% and 12.6% for the Russell 1000 Growth Index as we continue to expect gradual slowing in macroeconomic and profit growth
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 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 U.S. Focused 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. Policies for valuing investments, calculating performance, and preparing GIPS Reports are available upon request. Upon request, free of charge, SGA can provide a list of all portfolio holdings held in SGA’s U.S. Focused portfolio for the past year. SGA’s earnings growth forecast data is based upon portfolio companies’ non-GAAP operating earnings.