Equities

Unglamorous stock research, resisting the whims of the markets, and preparing for the worst can be downright boring. But it’s a great way to find quality international companies that can help reduce portfolio risk and improve downside protection – exciting results during these uncertain times.

Market sentiment reflects growth that will continue at past levels, yet economies and businesses globally are facing stiff headwinds – high government debt, rising inflation, and supply chain bottlenecks. As markets shrug off risks, expect volatility and a divergence in company performance in 2022.

The latest plot twist of the pandemic may have spooked markets in recent days, but the underlying sentiment is still one of worrying exuberance and investors are overlooking businesses in the consumer staples, health care and discretionary sectors that are still in the process of normalizing.

Local know-how goes a long way in emerging markets (EM). Regional e-commerce and consumer companies are increasing market share by adapting to local preferences. Some quality companies are benefiting from this and other EM trends, such as expanding demographics in the online gaming market and rising barriers to entry in semiconductors.

Portfolio Manager Chul Chang discusses valuations, opportunities in technology and industrials, rising debt levels and ESG considerations.

The nature we depend on is bleeding as natural habitat is cleared to support population growth, consumption and waste. Nature, society and the health of our portfolios are interlinked. This blog ties biodiversity hot spots to the impact of individual companies. Get ahead of risk and regulation.

Aided by social media and e-commerce, startup brands are increasingly taking share from legacy consumer packaged goods (CPG) companies. Meanwhile, retailers are launching far more sophisticated private-label brands. Which CPG companies are adapting to survive these threats? And do CPG stocks still play a role in portfolio construction?

To many, investing in sustainability is commonsense. To some, it is more of a bureaucratic waste of time with onerous new regulations. To us, it is clear that ESG is an integral part of evaluating business quality because, simply put, sustainability has a material impact on long-term value.

Recently Chinese regulators have become more assertive, causing concern among the international investor community. The key in helping investors navigate and, hopefully profit from these changes, is to understand the bigger picture and what the government is ultimately trying to achieve.

The Chinese government has recently instigated a far-reaching crackdown on privately-owned businesses in China. Chinese shares listed on foreign exchanges have reacted more negatively than A-shares to this increased government intervention. What risks does this pose to foreign investors and how can they prudently navigate the equity markets of China and Hong Kong?

Inflation is more than just an acceleration of prices; it is bad for economic growth and prosperity. We disagree with consensus that cyclical stocks –financials, industrials and commodities – are the best defense against inflation. Instead a portfolio of quality stocks can be the right approach.

10 million lab animals undergo tests with severe pain each year. Over time, companies have aligned with customers. The near-term exit for lab animals relies on regulators. A 2021 breakthrough in China shows progress. But the underlying driver is remarkable advances in technology. Management views and outlook in this blog.