In these industries we are seeking companies with high earnings ability. This is characterised by a good return on equity, solid balance sheet and stable earnings, not least in the form of free cash flow. In addition, we limit the universe to companies with headquarters in developed markets and market capitalisation of more than one billion USD.
Top five holdings:
- Microsoft Corp
- Prudential Plc
- Boston Scientific Corp
- SAP SE
- Centene Corp
Rising with the current
In October 2018, Pareto Global invested in the French company Schneider Electric, which sells products and services that ensure uninterrupted energy supply and reduce electricity consumption. We saw that the company was well positioned for the strong growth in electrification and energy saving.
A renaissance for value stocks?
-We are now being rewarded for having been patient owners of solid companies with strong momentum in their underlying value creation, and not least for having been true to our value-oriented philosophy and increased our holdings in periods when companies have traded at attractive price levels.
Fashion house in trouble
In February 2017, Pareto Global bought a substantial position in the American fashion house Ralph Lauren. At the time, the investment looked like a credible restructuring case with several specific areas of possible improvement. In a nutshell, we bought the stock because it was obvious that the company was in trouble. The portfolio managers' assessment was that the company had to, and would, deal with these problems – and succeed.
Nuclear exclusion
Accomplished portfolio management is not just about finding the right securities. It is also about determining what not to own. In the spring of 2016 we spotlighted the American engineering and construction company Fluor Corporation, and found, in a joint venture representing two per cent of Fluor revenues, a project that made us uncomfortable.
