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For C-Share information please contact Polar Capital or visit PCFC on the London Stock Exchange.
2. Source: Lipper. As at market close.
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2. Source: Lipper. As at market close.
Financials are the prime beneficiary of the shift out of a low inflation and interest rate environment. The improved outlook for normalised profitability has not been reflected in valuations and as the largest constituent of value indices it also provides diversification from growth sectors that have benefited from ultra-low interest rates over the last decade.
The Polar Capital Global Financials Trust invests across this large and diverse sector which includes banks, insurance companies, asset managers, stock exchanges and fintech companies.
Today, the level of risk on banks' balance sheets is materially lower than at the time of the Global Financial Crisis. We do not see this reflected in current valuations, which we think offers an attractive opportunity. In addition, as the largest constituent of value indices, Financials provides diversification from growth sectors that have benefitted from ultra-low rates in recent years.
With over 100 years’ experience investing across market cycles, the Polar Capital Global Financials team has built up an enviable track record.
Cumulative performance (%) | 1 month | 3 months | YTD | 1 year | Tender |
---|---|---|---|---|---|
Ordinary Share Price (TR) | 5.38 | 7.69 | 19.72 | 26.01 | 102.31 |
NAV per Share (TR) | 4.79 | 7.08 | 17.17 | 23.74 | 109.13 |
Benchmark | 3.69 | 5.99 | 14.42 | 22.24 | 101.53 |
Discrete performance (%) | 31.07.23 31.07.24 | 29.07.22 31.07.23 | 30.07.21 29.07.22 | 31.07.20 30.07.21 | 31.07.19 31.07.20 |
---|---|---|---|---|---|
Ordinary Share Price (TR) | 26.01 | 2.69 | -8.55 | 59.78 | -25.13 |
NAV per Share (TR) | 23.74 | 4.13 | 0.73 | 41.00 | -20.09 |
Benchmark | 22.24 | 6.29 | 5.83 | 36.10 | -21.06 |
As at 31 July, 2024.
Past performance is not indicative or a guarantee of future results. Source: Bloomberg & HSBC Securities Services (UK) Limited, percentage growth, Net of Fees in GBP terms. More information on performance can be found in the Share Price & Performance tab. The tender offer was carried out on 22 April 2020 following approval to extend the Company’s life indefinitely.
As at 31 July, 2024.
Past performance is not indicative or a guarantee of future results. Source: Bloomberg & HSBC Securities Services (UK) Limited, percentage growth, Net of Fees in GBP terms. More information on performance can be found in the Share Price & Performance tab. The tender offer was carried out on 22 April 2020 following approval to extend the Company’s life indefinitely.
Important Information: This website is provided for the sole use of the intended recipient and is not a financial promotion. It shall not and does not constitute an offer or solicitation of an offer to make an investment into any Fund or Company managed by Polar Capital. It may not be reproduced in any form without the express permission of Polar Capital. The law restricts distribution of this document in certain jurisdictions; therefore, it is the responsibility of the reader to inform themselves about and observe any such restrictions. It is the responsibility of any person/s in possession of this document to inform themselves of, and to observe, all applicable laws and regulations of any relevant jurisdiction. Polar Capital Global Financials Trust plc is an investment company with investment trust status and as such its ordinary and subscription shares are excluded from the FCA’s (Financial Conduct Authority’s) restrictions which apply to non-mainstream investment products. The Company conducts its affairs and intends to continue to do so for the foreseeable future so that the exclusion continues to apply. Subscription shares will have a dilutive effect on ordinary shares when the net asset value (NAV) is greater than the conversion price.
It is not designed to contain information material to an investor’s decision to invest in Polar Capital Global Financials Trust plc, an Alternative Investment Fund under the Alternative Investment Fund Managers Directive 2011/61/EU (“AIFMD”) managed by Polar Capital LLP the appointed Alternative Investment Manager. In relation to each member state of the EEA (each a “Member State”) which has implemented the AIFMD, this document may only be distributed and shares may only be offered or placed in a Member State to the extent that (1) the Fund is permitted to be marketed to professional investors in the relevant Member State in accordance with AIFMD; or (2) this document may otherwise be lawfully distributed and the shares may otherwise be lawfully offered or placed in that Member State (including at the initiative of the investor). As at the date of this document,the Company has not been approved, notified or registered in accordance with the AIFMD for marketing to professional investors in any member state of the EEA. However, such approval may be sought or such notification or registration may be made in the future. Therefore this website is only transmitted to an investor in an EEA Member State at such investor’s own initiative. SUCH INFORMATION, INCLUDING RELEVANT RISK FACTORS, IS CONTAINED IN THE COMPANY’S OFFER DOCUMENT WHICH MUST BE READ BY ANY PROSPECTIVE INVESTOR.
Third-party Data: Some information contained herein has been obtained from third party sources and has not been independently verified by Polar Capital. Neither Polar Capital nor any other party involved in or related to compiling, computing or creating the data makes any express or implied warranties or representations with respect to such data (or the results to be obtained by the use thereof), and all such parties hereby expressly disclaim all warranties of originality, accuracy, completeness, merchantability or fitness for a particular purpose with respect to any data contained herein.
Historic Yield: The Historic Yield reflects distributions declared over the past twelve months as a percentage of the share price, as at the date given. It does not include any initial charge and investors may be subject to tax on their distributions. Investors should note that Historic Yield does not measure the overall performance of the Company. It is possible for the Company to lose money overall but to have a positive historic yield. Historic yield cannot be considered as being similar to the interest rate an investor would earn on a savings account.
Information Subject to Change: The information contained herein is subject to change, without notice, at the discretion of Polar Capital and Polar Capital does not undertake to revise or update this information in any way.
Benchmarks: The following benchmark index is used: MSCI ACWI Financials Net Total Return Index (in Sterling). This benchmark is generally considered to be representative of the Financial Equity universe. This benchmarks is a broad-based index which is used for comparative/illustrative purposes only and has been selected as it is well known and is easily recognizable by investors. Please refer to www.msci.com for further information on these indices. Comparisons to benchmarks have limitations as benchmark’s volatility and other material characteristics may differ from the Company. Security holdings, industry weightings and asset allocation made for the Company may differ significantly from the benchmark. Accordingly, investment results and volatility of the Fund may differ from those of the benchmark. The indices noted in this document are unmanaged, are unavailable for direct investment, and are not subject to management fees, transaction costs or other types of expenses that the Fund may incur. The performance of the indices reflects reinvestment of dividends and, where applicable, capital gain distributions. Therefore, investors should carefully consider these limitations and differences when evaluating the comparative benchmark data performance. Information regarding indices is included merely to show general trends in the periods indicated, it is not intended to imply that the Fund is similar to indices in composition or risk. The benchmark used to calculate the performance fee is provided by an administrator on the ESMA register of benchmarks which includes details of all authorised, registered, recognised and endorsed EU and third country benchmark administrators together with their national competent authorities.
Performance/Investment Process/Risk: Performance is shown net of fees and expenses and includes the reinvestment of dividends and capital gain distributions. Factors affecting the Company’s performance may include changes in market conditions (including currency risk) and interest rates and in response to other economic, political, or financial developments. The Company’s investment policy allows for it to enter into derivatives contracts. Leverage may be generated through the use of such financial instruments and investors must be aware that the use of derivatives may expose the Company to greater risks, including, but not limited to, unanticipated market developments and risks of illiquidity, and is not suitable for all investors. Those in possession of this document must read the Company’s Investment Policy and Annual Report for further information on the use of derivatives. Past performance is not a guide to or indicative of future results. Future returns or income are not guaranteed and a loss of principal may occur. Investments are not insured by the FDIC (or any other state or federal agency), or guaranteed by any bank, and may lose value. No investment process or strategy is free of risk and there is no guarantee that the investment process or strategy described herein will be profitable.
Country Specific disclaimers: The Company has not been and will not be registered under the U.S. Investment Company Act of 1940, as amended (the "Investment Company Act") and the holders of its shares will not be entitled to the benefits of the Investment Company Act. In addition, the offer and sale of the Securities have not been, and will not be, registered under the U.S. Securities Act of 1933, as amended (the "Securities Act"). No Securities may be offered or sold or otherwise transacted within the United States or to, or for the account or benefit of U.S. Persons (as defined in Regulation S of the Securities Act). In connection with the transaction referred to in this document the shares of the Fund will be offered and sold only outside the United States to, and for the account or benefit of non U.S. Persons in "offshore- transactions" within the meaning of, and in reliance on the exemption from registration provided by Regulation S under the Securities Act. No money, securities or other consideration is being solicited and, if sent in response to the information contained herein, will not be accepted. Any failure to comply with the above restrictions may constitute a violation of such securities laws.
The Company’s investment objective is to generate for investors a growing dividend income together with capital appreciation.
The Company aims to pay two interim dividends in respect of each full financial year. The Company will aim to increase the dividends progressively year on year. This is a target only and not a profit forecast and there can be no assurance that increases year on year or indeed dividends of any level will be paid. Any such interim dividends will not necessarily be of equal amounts because the dividends from the Company’s underlying investments are expected to arrive irregularly throughout the financial year.
The Company will seek to achieve its objective by investing primarily in a global portfolio consisting of listed or quoted securities issued by companies in the financials sector operating in the banking, insurance, property and other sub-sectors.
The portfolio is expected to be diversified by factors such as geography, industry sub-sector and stock market capitalisation. The Company may have a small exposure to unlisted and unquoted companies, but in aggregate this is not expected to exceed 10 per cent of total assets at the time of investment.
The Company will not invest more than 10 per cent of total assets, at the time of investment, in other listed closed-ended investment companies and no single investment will normally account for more than 10 per cent of the portfolio at the time of investment.
The Company will employ cautious levels of borrowing from time to time with the aim of enhancing returns, subject to an overall maximum of 15 per cent of net assets at the time the relevant borrowing is taken out. Actual levels of borrowing may change from time to time based on the Manager’s assessment of risk and reward.
The Company may invest through equities, index-linked, equity linked and other debt securities, cash deposits, money market instruments, foreign currency exchange transactions, forward transactions, index options and other interests including derivative instruments. Forward transactions, derivatives (including put and call options on individual positions or indices) and participation notes may be used to gain exposure to the securities of companies falling within the Company’s investment policy or to seek.
Important Information: This website is provided for the sole use of the intended recipient and is not a financial promotion. It shall not and does not constitute an offer or solicitation of an offer to make an investment into any Fund or Company managed by Polar Capital. It may not be reproduced in any form without the express permission of Polar Capital. The law restricts distribution of this document in certain jurisdictions; therefore, it is the responsibility of the reader to inform themselves about and observe any such restrictions. It is the responsibility of any person/s in possession of this document to inform themselves of, and to observe, all applicable laws and regulations of any relevant jurisdiction. Polar Capital Global Financials Trust plc is an investment company with investment trust status and as such its ordinary and subscription shares are excluded from the FCA’s (Financial Conduct Authority’s) restrictions which apply to non-mainstream investment products. The Company conducts its affairs and intends to continue to do so for the foreseeable future so that the exclusion continues to apply. Subscription shares will have a dilutive effect on ordinary shares when the net asset value (NAV) is greater than the conversion price.
It is not designed to contain information material to an investor’s decision to invest in Polar Capital Global Financials Trust plc, an Alternative Investment Fund under the Alternative Investment Fund Managers Directive 2011/61/EU (“AIFMD”) managed by Polar Capital LLP the appointed Alternative Investment Manager. In relation to each member state of the EEA (each a “Member State”) which has implemented the AIFMD, this document may only be distributed and shares may only be offered or placed in a Member State to the extent that (1) the Fund is permitted to be marketed to professional investors in the relevant Member State in accordance with AIFMD; or (2) this document may otherwise be lawfully distributed and the shares may otherwise be lawfully offered or placed in that Member State (including at the initiative of the investor). As at the date of this document,the Company has not been approved, notified or registered in accordance with the AIFMD for marketing to professional investors in any member state of the EEA. However, such approval may be sought or such notification or registration may be made in the future. Therefore this website is only transmitted to an investor in an EEA Member State at such investor’s own initiative. SUCH INFORMATION, INCLUDING RELEVANT RISK FACTORS, IS CONTAINED IN THE COMPANY’S OFFER DOCUMENT WHICH MUST BE READ BY ANY PROSPECTIVE INVESTOR.
Third-party Data: Some information contained herein has been obtained from third party sources and has not been independently verified by Polar Capital. Neither Polar Capital nor any other party involved in or related to compiling, computing or creating the data makes any express or implied warranties or representations with respect to such data (or the results to be obtained by the use thereof), and all such parties hereby expressly disclaim all warranties of originality, accuracy, completeness, merchantability or fitness for a particular purpose with respect to any data contained herein.
Historic Yield: The Historic Yield reflects distributions declared over the past twelve months as a percentage of the share price, as at the date given. It does not include any initial charge and investors may be subject to tax on their distributions. Investors should note that Historic Yield does not measure the overall performance of the Company. It is possible for the Company to lose money overall but to have a positive historic yield. Historic yield cannot be considered as being similar to the interest rate an investor would earn on a savings account.
Benchmarks: The following benchmark index is used: MSCI ACWI Financials Net Total Return Index (in Sterling). This benchmark is generally considered to be representative of the Financial Equity universe. This benchmarks is a broad-based index which is used for comparative/illustrative purposes only and has been selected as it is well known and is easily recognizable by investors. Please refer to www.msci.com for further information on these indices. Comparisons to benchmarks have limitations as benchmark’s volatility and other material characteristics may differ from the Company. Security holdings, industry weightings and asset allocation made for the Company may differ significantly from the benchmark. Accordingly, investment results and volatility of the Fund may differ from those of the benchmark. The indices noted in this document are unmanaged, are unavailable for direct investment, and are not subject to management fees, transaction costs or other types of expenses that the Fund may incur. The performance of the indices reflects reinvestment of dividends and, where applicable, capital gain distributions. Therefore, investors should carefully consider these limitations and differences when evaluating the comparative benchmark data performance. Information regarding indices is included merely to show general trends in the periods indicated, it is not intended to imply that the Fund is similar to indices in composition or risk. The benchmark used to calculate the performance fee is provided by an administrator on the ESMA register of benchmarks which includes details of all authorised, registered, recognised and endorsed EU and third country benchmark administrators together with their national competent authorities.
Information Subject to Change: The information contained herein is subject to change, without notice, at the discretion of Polar Capital and Polar Capital does not undertake to revise or update this information in any way.
Country Specific disclaimers: The Company has not been and will not be registered under the U.S. Investment Company Act of 1940, as amended (the "Investment Company Act") and the holders of its shares will not be entitled to the benefits of the Investment Company Act. In addition, the offer and sale of the Securities have not been, and will not be, registered under the U.S. Securities Act of 1933, as amended (the "Securities Act"). No Securities may be offered or sold or otherwise transacted within the United States or to, or for the account or benefit of U.S. Persons (as defined in Regulation S of the Securities Act). In connection with the transaction referred to in this document the shares of the Fund will be offered and sold only outside the United States to, and for the account or benefit of non U.S. Persons in "offshore- transactions" within the meaning of, and in reliance on the exemption from registration provided by Regulation S under the Securities Act. No money, securities or other consideration is being solicited and, if sent in response to the information contained herein, will not be accepted. Any failure to comply with the above restrictions may constitute a violation of such securities laws.
Last updated {{time}} {{Date}}
2. Source: Lipper. As at market close.
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Source: London Stock Exchange. Delayed by at least 15 minutes.
Invalid Dates
Update chart1 month | 3 month | YTD | 1 year | 3 years | Since Tender | Since Launch | |
---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
Ordinary Share Price (TR) | 5.38 | 7.69 | 19.72 | 26.01 | 18.34 | 102.31 | 142.07 |
NAV per Share (TR) | 4.79 | 7.08 | 17.17 | 23.74 | 29.80 | 109.13 | 172.14 |
MSCI ACWI Financials (NTR) | 3.69 | 5.99 | 14.42 | 22.24 | 37.50 | 101.53 | 169.22 |
Source: Bloomberg & HSBC Securities Services (UK) Limited, percentage growth, Net of Fees in GBP terms. Past performance is not indicative or a guarantee of future results.
The Net Asset Value (NAV) at launch was 98.0p per ordinary share based on the subscription price of 100.0p per ordinary share and launch costs of 2.0p per ordinary share.
Ordinary share price (TR), is calculated by reinvesting dividends at relevant ex-dividend dates, not taking into account returns shareholders would have received from the subscription shares issued at launch. Please note subscription shares were subject to a single exercise date being 31 July 2017.
The MSCI ACWI Financials Net Total Return Index was adopted as the Trust's benchmark in April 2020.
Financial YTD | 31.07.23 31.07.24 | 29.07.22 31.07.23 | 30.07.21 29.07.22 | 31.07.20 30.07.21 | 31.07.19 31.07.20 | |
---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
Ordinary Share Price (TR) | 28.86 | 26.01 | 2.69 | -8.55 | 59.78 | -25.13 |
NAV per Share (TR) | 22.62 | 23.74 | 4.13 | 0.73 | 41.00 | -20.09 |
MSCI ACWI Financials (NTR) | 20.21 | 22.24 | 6.29 | 5.83 | 36.10 | -21.06 |
Important Information: This website is provided for the sole use of the intended recipient and is not a financial promotion. It shall not and does not constitute an offer or solicitation of an offer to make an investment into any Fund or Company managed by Polar Capital. It may not be reproduced in any form without the express permission of Polar Capital. The law restricts distribution of this document in certain jurisdictions; therefore, it is the responsibility of the reader to inform themselves about and observe any such restrictions. It is the responsibility of any person/s in possession of this document to inform themselves of, and to observe, all applicable laws and regulations of any relevant jurisdiction. Polar Capital Global Financials Trust plc is an investment company with investment trust status and as such its ordinary and subscription shares are excluded from the FCA’s (Financial Conduct Authority’s) restrictions which apply to non-mainstream investment products. The Company conducts its affairs and intends to continue to do so for the foreseeable future so that the exclusion continues to apply. Subscription shares will have a dilutive effect on ordinary shares when the net asset value (NAV) is greater than the conversion price.
It is not designed to contain information material to an investor’s decision to invest in Polar Capital Global Financials Trust plc, an Alternative Investment Fund under the Alternative Investment Fund Managers Directive 2011/61/EU (“AIFMD”) managed by Polar Capital LLP the appointed Alternative Investment Manager. In relation to each member state of the EEA (each a “Member State”) which has implemented the AIFMD, this document may only be distributed and shares may only be offered or placed in a Member State to the extent that (1) the Fund is permitted to be marketed to professional investors in the relevant Member State in accordance with AIFMD; or (2) this document may otherwise be lawfully distributed and the shares may otherwise be lawfully offered or placed in that Member State (including at the initiative of the investor). As at the date of this document,the Company has not been approved, notified or registered in accordance with the AIFMD for marketing to professional investors in any member state of the EEA. However, such approval may be sought or such notification or registration may be made in the future. Therefore this website is only transmitted to an investor in an EEA Member State at such investor’s own initiative. SUCH INFORMATION, INCLUDING RELEVANT RISK FACTORS, IS CONTAINED IN THE COMPANY’S OFFER DOCUMENT WHICH MUST BE READ BY ANY PROSPECTIVE INVESTOR.
Third-party Data: Some information contained herein has been obtained from third party sources and has not been independently verified by Polar Capital. Neither Polar Capital nor any other party involved in or related to compiling, computing or creating the data makes any express or implied warranties or representations with respect to such data (or the results to be obtained by the use thereof), and all such parties hereby expressly disclaim all warranties of originality, accuracy, completeness, merchantability or fitness for a particular purpose with respect to any data contained herein.
Historic Yield: The Historic Yield reflects distributions declared over the past twelve months as a percentage of the share price, as at the date given. It does not include any initial charge and investors may be subject to tax on their distributions. Investors should note that Historic Yield does not measure the overall performance of the Company. It is possible for the Company to lose money overall but to have a positive historic yield. Historic yield cannot be considered as being similar to the interest rate an investor would earn on a savings account.
Information Subject to Change: The information contained herein is subject to change, without notice, at the discretion of Polar Capital and Polar Capital does not undertake to revise or update this information in any way.
Benchmarks: The following benchmark index is used: MSCI ACWI Financials Net Total Return Index (in Sterling). This benchmark is generally considered to be representative of the Financial Equity universe. This benchmarks is a broad-based index which is used for comparative/illustrative purposes only and has been selected as it is well known and is easily recognizable by investors. Please refer to www.msci.com for further information on these indices. Comparisons to benchmarks have limitations as benchmark’s volatility and other material characteristics may differ from the Company. Security holdings, industry weightings and asset allocation made for the Company may differ significantly from the benchmark. Accordingly, investment results and volatility of the Fund may differ from those of the benchmark. The indices noted in this document are unmanaged, are unavailable for direct investment, and are not subject to management fees, transaction costs or other types of expenses that the Fund may incur. The performance of the indices reflects reinvestment of dividends and, where applicable, capital gain distributions. Therefore, investors should carefully consider these limitations and differences when evaluating the comparative benchmark data performance. Information regarding indices is included merely to show general trends in the periods indicated, it is not intended to imply that the Fund is similar to indices in composition or risk. The benchmark used to calculate the performance fee is provided by an administrator on the ESMA register of benchmarks which includes details of all authorised, registered, recognised and endorsed EU and third country benchmark administrators together with their national competent authorities.
Performance/Investment Process/Risk: Performance is shown net of fees and expenses and includes the reinvestment of dividends and capital gain distributions. Factors affecting the Company’s performance may include changes in market conditions (including currency risk) and interest rates and in response to other economic, political, or financial developments. The Company’s investment policy allows for it to enter into derivatives contracts. Leverage may be generated through the use of such financial instruments and investors must be aware that the use of derivatives may expose the Company to greater risks, including, but not limited to, unanticipated market developments and risks of illiquidity, and is not suitable for all investors. Those in possession of this document must read the Company’s Investment Policy and Annual Report for further information on the use of derivatives. Past performance is not a guide to or indicative of future results. Future returns or income are not guaranteed and a loss of principal may occur. Investments are not insured by the FDIC (or any other state or federal agency), or guaranteed by any bank, and may lose value. No investment process or strategy is free of risk and there is no guarantee that the investment process or strategy described herein will be profitable.
Country Specific disclaimers: The Company has not been and will not be registered under the U.S. Investment Company Act of 1940, as amended (the "Investment Company Act") and the holders of its shares will not be entitled to the benefits of the Investment Company Act. In addition, the offer and sale of the Securities have not been, and will not be, registered under the U.S. Securities Act of 1933, as amended (the "Securities Act"). No Securities may be offered or sold or otherwise transacted within the United States or to, or for the account or benefit of U.S. Persons (as defined in Regulation S of the Securities Act). In connection with the transaction referred to in this document the shares of the Fund will be offered and sold only outside the United States to, and for the account or benefit of non U.S. Persons in "offshore- transactions" within the meaning of, and in reliance on the exemption from registration provided by Regulation S under the Securities Act. No money, securities or other consideration is being solicited and, if sent in response to the information contained herein, will not be accepted. Any failure to comply with the above restrictions may constitute a violation of such securities laws.
JPMorgan | 6.3 | |
Mastercard | 5.2 | |
Chubb | 3.2 | |
Visa | 2.8 | |
UniCredit | 2.6 | |
Goldman Sachs Group | 2.4 | |
Intercontinental Exchange | 2.4 | |
Erste Group Bank AG | 2.3 | |
Marsh McLennan | 2.3 | |
Fidelity National Information | 2.2 | |
Top 10 Holdings | 31.8 | |
Rest of Portfolio | 68.2 |
Total Number of Positions 85
Financial Services | 37.1 | |
Banks | 35.1 | |
Insurance | 20.6 | |
Fixed Income | 7.3 | |
Note: Totals may not sum due to rounding.
Key | GBP | |
Total Net Assets | £582.3m | |
AIC Gearing Ratio | 2.61% | |
AIC Net Cash Ratio | n/a | |
Mega Cap (>USD$ 109.05 bn) | 36.3 | |
Large Cap (USD$ 39.74 - 109.05 bn) | 23.8 | |
Mid Cap (USD$ 14.19 - 39.74 bn) | 15.6 | |
Small Cap (USD$ 5.25 - 14.19 bn) | 10.7 | |
Smallest Cap (<USD $ 5.25 bn) | 13.7 |
Market capitalisation ranges are defined by Polar Capital and are subject to change.
North America | 48.3 | |
Europe | 16.7 | |
UK | 13.6 | |
Asia Pac (ex-Japan) | 9.3 | |
Fixed Income | 7.3 | |
Japan | 4.0 | |
Latin America | 0.9 | |
Important Information: This website is provided for the sole use of the intended recipient and is not a financial promotion. It shall not and does not constitute an offer or solicitation of an offer to make an investment into any Fund or Company managed by Polar Capital. It may not be reproduced in any form without the express permission of Polar Capital. The law restricts distribution of this document in certain jurisdictions; therefore, it is the responsibility of the reader to inform themselves about and observe any such restrictions. It is the responsibility of any person/s in possession of this document to inform themselves of, and to observe, all applicable laws and regulations of any relevant jurisdiction. Polar Capital Global Financials Trust plc is an investment company with investment trust status and as such its ordinary and subscription shares are excluded from the FCA’s (Financial Conduct Authority’s) restrictions which apply to non-mainstream investment products. The Company conducts its affairs and intends to continue to do so for the foreseeable future so that the exclusion continues to apply. Subscription shares will have a dilutive effect on ordinary shares when the net asset value (NAV) is greater than the conversion price.
It is not designed to contain information material to an investor’s decision to invest in Polar Capital Global Financials Trust plc, an Alternative Investment Fund under the Alternative Investment Fund Managers Directive 2011/61/EU (“AIFMD”) managed by Polar Capital LLP the appointed Alternative Investment Manager. In relation to each member state of the EEA (each a “Member State”) which has implemented the AIFMD, this document may only be distributed and shares may only be offered or placed in a Member State to the extent that (1) the Fund is permitted to be marketed to professional investors in the relevant Member State in accordance with AIFMD; or (2) this document may otherwise be lawfully distributed and the shares may otherwise be lawfully offered or placed in that Member State (including at the initiative of the investor). As at the date of this document,the Company has not been approved, notified or registered in accordance with the AIFMD for marketing to professional investors in any member state of the EEA. However, such approval may be sought or such notification or registration may be made in the future. Therefore this website is only transmitted to an investor in an EEA Member State at such investor’s own initiative. SUCH INFORMATION, INCLUDING RELEVANT RISK FACTORS, IS CONTAINED IN THE COMPANY’S OFFER DOCUMENT WHICH MUST BE READ BY ANY PROSPECTIVE INVESTOR.
Historic Yield: The Historic Yield reflects distributions declared over the past twelve months as a percentage of the share price, as at the date given. It does not include any initial charge and investors may be subject to tax on their distributions. Investors should note that Historic Yield does not measure the overall performance of the Company. It is possible for the Company to lose money overall but to have a positive historic yield. Historic yield cannot be considered as being similar to the interest rate an investor would earn on a savings account.
Third-party Data: Some information contained herein has been obtained from third party sources and has not been independently verified by Polar Capital. Neither Polar Capital nor any other party involved in or related to compiling, computing or creating the data makes any express or implied warranties or representations with respect to such data (or the results to be obtained by the use thereof), and all such parties hereby expressly disclaim all warranties of originality, accuracy, completeness, merchantability or fitness for a particular purpose with respect to any data contained herein.
Holdings: Portfolio data is “as at” the date indicated and should not be relied upon as a complete or current listing of the holdings (or top holdings) of the Company. The holdings may represent only a small percentage of the aggregate portfolio holdings, are subject to change without notice, and may not represent current or future portfolio composition. Information on particular holdings may be withheld if it is in the Company’s best interest to do so. It should not be assumed that recommendations made in future will be profitable or will equal performance of the securities in this document. A list of all recommendations made within the immediately preceding 12 months is available upon request. This document is not a recommendation to purchase or sell any particular security. It is designed to provide updated information to professional investors to enable them to monitor the Company.
Benchmarks: The following benchmark index is used: MSCI ACWI Financials Net Total Return Index (in Sterling). This benchmark is generally considered to be representative of the Financial Equity universe. This benchmarks is a broad-based index which is used for comparative/illustrative purposes only and has been selected as it is well known and is easily recognizable by investors. Please refer to www.msci.com for further information on these indices. Comparisons to benchmarks have limitations as benchmark’s volatility and other material characteristics may differ from the Company. Security holdings, industry weightings and asset allocation made for the Company may differ significantly from the benchmark. Accordingly, investment results and volatility of the Fund may differ from those of the benchmark. The indices noted in this document are unmanaged, are unavailable for direct investment, and are not subject to management fees, transaction costs or other types of expenses that the Fund may incur. The performance of the indices reflects reinvestment of dividends and, where applicable, capital gain distributions. Therefore, investors should carefully consider these limitations and differences when evaluating the comparative benchmark data performance. Information regarding indices is included merely to show general trends in the periods indicated, it is not intended to imply that the Fund is similar to indices in composition or risk. The benchmark used to calculate the performance fee is provided by an administrator on the ESMA register of benchmarks which includes details of all authorised, registered, recognised and endorsed EU and third country benchmark administrators together with their national competent authorities.
Information Subject to Change: The information contained herein is subject to change, without notice, at the discretion of Polar Capital and Polar Capital does not undertake to revise or update this information in any way.
Allocations: The strategy allocation percentages set forth in this webpage are estimates and actual percentages may vary from time-to-time. The types of investments presented herein will not always have the same comparable risks and returns. Please see the private placement memorandum or prospectus for a description of the investment allocations as well as the risks associated therewith. Please note that the Company may elect to invest assets in different investment sectors from those depicted herein, which may entail additional and/or different risks. Performance of the Company is dependent on the Investment Manager’s ability to identify and access appropriate investments, and balance assets to maximize return to the Company while minimizing its risk. The actual investments in the Company may or may not be the same or in the same proportion as those shown herein.
Country Specific disclaimers: The Company has not been and will not be registered under the U.S. Investment Company Act of 1940, as amended (the "Investment Company Act") and the holders of its shares will not be entitled to the benefits of the Investment Company Act. In addition, the offer and sale of the Securities have not been, and will not be, registered under the U.S. Securities Act of 1933, as amended (the "Securities Act"). No Securities may be offered or sold or otherwise transacted within the United States or to, or for the account or benefit of U.S. Persons (as defined in Regulation S of the Securities Act). In connection with the transaction referred to in this document the shares of the Fund will be offered and sold only outside the United States to, and for the account or benefit of non U.S. Persons in "offshore- transactions" within the meaning of, and in reliance on the exemption from registration provided by Regulation S under the Securities Act. No money, securities or other consideration is being solicited and, if sent in response to the information contained herein, will not be accepted. Any failure to comply with the above restrictions may constitute a violation of such securities laws.
Pence per share
Important Information: This website is provided for the sole use of the intended recipient and is not a financial promotion. It shall not and does not constitute an offer or solicitation of an offer to make an investment into any Fund or Company managed by Polar Capital. It may not be reproduced in any form without the express permission of Polar Capital. The law restricts distribution of this document in certain jurisdictions; therefore, it is the responsibility of the reader to inform themselves about and observe any such restrictions. It is the responsibility of any person/s in possession of this document to inform themselves of, and to observe, all applicable laws and regulations of any relevant jurisdiction. Polar Capital Global Financials Trust plc is an investment company with investment trust status and as such its ordinary and subscription shares are excluded from the FCA’s (Financial Conduct Authority’s) restrictions which apply to non-mainstream investment products. The Company conducts its affairs and intends to continue to do so for the foreseeable future so that the exclusion continues to apply. Subscription shares will have a dilutive effect on ordinary shares when the net asset value (NAV) is greater than the conversion price.
It is not designed to contain information material to an investor’s decision to invest in Polar Capital Global Financials Trust plc, an Alternative Investment Fund under the Alternative Investment Fund Managers Directive 2011/61/EU (“AIFMD”) managed by Polar Capital LLP the appointed Alternative Investment Manager. In relation to each member state of the EEA (each a “Member State”) which has implemented the AIFMD, this document may only be distributed and shares may only be offered or placed in a Member State to the extent that (1) the Fund is permitted to be marketed to professional investors in the relevant Member State in accordance with AIFMD; or (2) this document may otherwise be lawfully distributed and the shares may otherwise be lawfully offered or placed in that Member State (including at the initiative of the investor). As at the date of this document,the Company has not been approved, notified or registered in accordance with the AIFMD for marketing to professional investors in any member state of the EEA. However, such approval may be sought or such notification or registration may be made in the future. Therefore this website is only transmitted to an investor in an EEA Member State at such investor’s own initiative. SUCH INFORMATION, INCLUDING RELEVANT RISK FACTORS, IS CONTAINED IN THE COMPANY’S OFFER DOCUMENT WHICH MUST BE READ BY ANY PROSPECTIVE INVESTOR.
Historic Yield: The Historic Yield reflects distributions declared over the past twelve months as a percentage of the share price, as at the date given. It does not include any initial charge and investors may be subject to tax on their distributions. Investors should note that Historic Yield does not measure the overall performance of the Company. It is possible for the Company to lose money overall but to have a positive historic yield. Historic yield cannot be considered as being similar to the interest rate an investor would earn on a savings account.
Third-party Data: Some information contained herein has been obtained from third party sources and has not been independently verified by Polar Capital. Neither Polar Capital nor any other party involved in or related to compiling, computing or creating the data makes any express or implied warranties or representations with respect to such data (or the results to be obtained by the use thereof), and all such parties hereby expressly disclaim all warranties of originality, accuracy, completeness, merchantability or fitness for a particular purpose with respect to any data contained herein.
Information Subject to Change: The information contained herein is subject to change, without notice, at the discretion of Polar Capital and Polar Capital does not undertake to revise or update this information in any way.
Performance/Investment Process/Risk: Performance is shown net of fees and expenses and includes the reinvestment of dividends and capital gain distributions. Factors affecting the Company’s performance may include changes in market conditions (including currency risk) and interest rates and in response to other economic, political, or financial developments. The Company’s investment policy allows for it to enter into derivatives contracts. Leverage may be generated through the use of such financial instruments and investors must be aware that the use of derivatives may expose the Company to greater risks, including, but not limited to, unanticipated market developments and risks of illiquidity, and is not suitable for all investors. Those in possession of this document must read the Company’s Investment Policy and Annual Report for further information on the use of derivatives. Past performance is not a guide to or indicative of future results. Future returns or income are not guaranteed and a loss of principal may occur. Investments are not insured by the FDIC (or any other state or federal agency), or guaranteed by any bank, and may lose value. No investment process or strategy is free of risk and there is no guarantee that the investment process or strategy described herein will be profitable.
Country Specific disclaimers: The Company has not been and will not be registered under the U.S. Investment Company Act of 1940, as amended (the "Investment Company Act") and the holders of its shares will not be entitled to the benefits of the Investment Company Act. In addition, the offer and sale of the Securities have not been, and will not be, registered under the U.S. Securities Act of 1933, as amended (the "Securities Act"). No Securities may be offered or sold or otherwise transacted within the United States or to, or for the account or benefit of U.S. Persons (as defined in Regulation S of the Securities Act). In connection with the transaction referred to in this document the shares of the Fund will be offered and sold only outside the United States to, and for the account or benefit of non U.S. Persons in "offshore- transactions" within the meaning of, and in reliance on the exemption from registration provided by Regulation S under the Securities Act. No money, securities or other consideration is being solicited and, if sent in response to the information contained herein, will not be accepted. Any failure to comply with the above restrictions may constitute a violation of such securities laws.
Important Information: This website is provided for the sole use of the intended recipient and is not a financial promotion. It shall not and does not constitute an offer or solicitation of an offer to make an investment into any Fund or Company managed by Polar Capital. It may not be reproduced in any form without the express permission of Polar Capital. The law restricts distribution of this document in certain jurisdictions; therefore, it is the responsibility of the reader to inform themselves about and observe any such restrictions. It is the responsibility of any person/s in possession of this document to inform themselves of, and to observe, all applicable laws and regulations of any relevant jurisdiction. Polar Capital Global Financials Trust plc is an investment company with investment trust status and as such its ordinary and subscription shares are excluded from the FCA’s (Financial Conduct Authority’s) restrictions which apply to non-mainstream investment products. The Company conducts its affairs and intends to continue to do so for the foreseeable future so that the exclusion continues to apply. Subscription shares will have a dilutive effect on ordinary shares when the net asset value (NAV) is greater than the conversion price.
It is not designed to contain information material to an investor’s decision to invest in Polar Capital Global Financials Trust plc, an Alternative Investment Fund under the Alternative Investment Fund Managers Directive 2011/61/EU (“AIFMD”) managed by Polar Capital LLP the appointed Alternative Investment Manager. In relation to each member state of the EEA (each a “Member State”) which has implemented the AIFMD, this document may only be distributed and shares may only be offered or placed in a Member State to the extent that (1) the Fund is permitted to be marketed to professional investors in the relevant Member State in accordance with AIFMD; or (2) this document may otherwise be lawfully distributed and the shares may otherwise be lawfully offered or placed in that Member State (including at the initiative of the investor). As at the date of this document,the Company has not been approved, notified or registered in accordance with the AIFMD for marketing to professional investors in any member state of the EEA. However, such approval may be sought or such notification or registration may be made in the future. Therefore this website is only transmitted to an investor in an EEA Member State at such investor’s own initiative. SUCH INFORMATION, INCLUDING RELEVANT RISK FACTORS, IS CONTAINED IN THE COMPANY’S OFFER DOCUMENT WHICH MUST BE READ BY ANY PROSPECTIVE INVESTOR.
Statements/Opinions/Views: All opinions and estimates constitute the best judgment of Polar Capital as of the date hereof, but are subject to change without notice, and do not necessarily represent the views of Polar Capital. This material does not constitute legal or accounting advice; readers should contact their legal and accounting professionals for such information. All sources are Polar Capital unless otherwise stated.
Historic Yield: The Historic Yield reflects distributions declared over the past twelve months as a percentage of the share price, as at the date given. It does not include any initial charge and investors may be subject to tax on their distributions. Investors should note that Historic Yield does not measure the overall performance of the Company. It is possible for the Company to lose money overall but to have a positive historic yield. Historic yield cannot be considered as being similar to the interest rate an investor would earn on a savings account.
Third-party Data: Some information contained herein has been obtained from third party sources and has not been independently verified by Polar Capital. Neither Polar Capital nor any other party involved in or related to compiling, computing or creating the data makes any express or implied warranties or representations with respect to such data (or the results to be obtained by the use thereof), and all such parties hereby expressly disclaim all warranties of originality, accuracy, completeness, merchantability or fitness for a particular purpose with respect to any data contained herein.
Holdings: Portfolio data is “as at” the date indicated and should not be relied upon as a complete or current listing of the holdings (or top holdings) of the Company. The holdings may represent only a small percentage of the aggregate portfolio holdings, are subject to change without notice, and may not represent current or future portfolio composition. Information on particular holdings may be withheld if it is in the Company’s best interest to do so. It should not be assumed that recommendations made in future will be profitable or will equal performance of the securities in this document. A list of all recommendations made within the immediately preceding 12 months is available upon request. This document is not a recommendation to purchase or sell any particular security. It is designed to provide updated information to professional investors to enable them to monitor the Company.
Benchmarks: The following benchmark index is used: MSCI ACWI Financials Net Total Return Index (in Sterling). This benchmark is generally considered to be representative of the Financial Equity universe. This benchmarks is a broad-based index which is used for comparative/illustrative purposes only and has been selected as it is well known and is easily recognizable by investors. Please refer to www.msci.com for further information on these indices. Comparisons to benchmarks have limitations as benchmark’s volatility and other material characteristics may differ from the Company. Security holdings, industry weightings and asset allocation made for the Company may differ significantly from the benchmark. Accordingly, investment results and volatility of the Fund may differ from those of the benchmark. The indices noted in this document are unmanaged, are unavailable for direct investment, and are not subject to management fees, transaction costs or other types of expenses that the Fund may incur. The performance of the indices reflects reinvestment of dividends and, where applicable, capital gain distributions. Therefore, investors should carefully consider these limitations and differences when evaluating the comparative benchmark data performance. Information regarding indices is included merely to show general trends in the periods indicated, it is not intended to imply that the Fund is similar to indices in composition or risk. The benchmark used to calculate the performance fee is provided by an administrator on the ESMA register of benchmarks which includes details of all authorised, registered, recognised and endorsed EU and third country benchmark administrators together with their national competent authorities.
Information Subject to Change: The information contained herein is subject to change, without notice, at the discretion of Polar Capital and Polar Capital does not undertake to revise or update this information in any way.
Forecasts: References to future returns are not promises or estimates of actual returns Polar Capital may achieve. Forecasts contained herein are for illustrative purposes only and does not constitute advice or a recommendation. Forecasts are based upon subjective estimates and assumptions about circumstances and events that have not and may not take place.
Performance/Investment Process/Risk: Performance is shown net of fees and expenses and includes the reinvestment of dividends and capital gain distributions. Factors affecting the Company’s performance may include changes in market conditions (including currency risk) and interest rates and in response to other economic, political, or financial developments. The Company’s investment policy allows for it to enter into derivatives contracts. Leverage may be generated through the use of such financial instruments and investors must be aware that the use of derivatives may expose the Company to greater risks, including, but not limited to, unanticipated market developments and risks of illiquidity, and is not suitable for all investors. Those in possession of this document must read the Company’s Investment Policy and Annual Report for further information on the use of derivatives. Past performance is not a guide to or indicative of future results. Future returns or income are not guaranteed and a loss of principal may occur. Investments are not insured by the FDIC (or any other state or federal agency), or guaranteed by any bank, and may lose value. No investment process or strategy is free of risk and there is no guarantee that the investment process or strategy described herein will be profitable.
Allocations: The strategy allocation percentages set forth in this webpage are estimates and actual percentages may vary from time-to-time. The types of investments presented herein will not always have the same comparable risks and returns. Please see the private placement memorandum or prospectus for a description of the investment allocations as well as the risks associated therewith. Please note that the Company may elect to invest assets in different investment sectors from those depicted herein, which may entail additional and/or different risks. Performance of the Company is dependent on the Investment Manager’s ability to identify and access appropriate investments, and balance assets to maximize return to the Company while minimizing its risk. The actual investments in the Company may or may not be the same or in the same proportion as those shown herein.
Country Specific disclaimers: The Company has not been and will not be registered under the U.S. Investment Company Act of 1940, as amended (the "Investment Company Act") and the holders of its shares will not be entitled to the benefits of the Investment Company Act. In addition, the offer and sale of the Securities have not been, and will not be, registered under the U.S. Securities Act of 1933, as amended (the "Securities Act"). No Securities may be offered or sold or otherwise transacted within the United States or to, or for the account or benefit of U.S. Persons (as defined in Regulation S of the Securities Act). In connection with the transaction referred to in this document the shares of the Fund will be offered and sold only outside the United States to, and for the account or benefit of non U.S. Persons in "offshore- transactions" within the meaning of, and in reliance on the exemption from registration provided by Regulation S under the Securities Act. No money, securities or other consideration is being solicited and, if sent in response to the information contained herein, will not be accepted. Any failure to comply with the above restrictions may constitute a violation of such securities laws.
Ordinary shares | |
ISIN | GB00B9XQT119 |
SEDOL | B9XQT11 |
London Stock Exchange | PCFT |
LEI | 549300G5SWN8EP2P4U41 |
LEI Polar Capital LLP | 4YW3JKTZ3K1II2GVCK15 |
Management | 0.70% |
Performance | 10% |
Ongoing Charges | 0.86% |
With effect from 23 April 2020, the performance fee is calculated daily on any outperformance over the performance fee hurdle. The hurdle is the benchmark index +1.5% per annum, compounded annually. The Management fee was reduced from 0.85% to 0.70% with effect from 7 April 2020. Ongoing charges calculated at the latest published year end date, excluding any performance fees. Further details can be found in the Report and Accounts.
Important Information: This website is provided for the sole use of the intended recipient and is not a financial promotion. It shall not and does not constitute an offer or solicitation of an offer to make an investment into any Fund or Company managed by Polar Capital. It may not be reproduced in any form without the express permission of Polar Capital. The law restricts distribution of this document in certain jurisdictions; therefore, it is the responsibility of the reader to inform themselves about and observe any such restrictions. It is the responsibility of any person/s in possession of this document to inform themselves of, and to observe, all applicable laws and regulations of any relevant jurisdiction. Polar Capital Global Financials Trust plc is an investment company with investment trust status and as such its ordinary and subscription shares are excluded from the FCA’s (Financial Conduct Authority’s) restrictions which apply to non-mainstream investment products. The Company conducts its affairs and intends to continue to do so for the foreseeable future so that the exclusion continues to apply. Subscription shares will have a dilutive effect on ordinary shares when the net asset value (NAV) is greater than the conversion price.
It is not designed to contain information material to an investor’s decision to invest in Polar Capital Global Financials Trust plc, an Alternative Investment Fund under the Alternative Investment Fund Managers Directive 2011/61/EU (“AIFMD”) managed by Polar Capital LLP the appointed Alternative Investment Manager. In relation to each member state of the EEA (each a “Member State”) which has implemented the AIFMD, this document may only be distributed and shares may only be offered or placed in a Member State to the extent that (1) the Fund is permitted to be marketed to professional investors in the relevant Member State in accordance with AIFMD; or (2) this document may otherwise be lawfully distributed and the shares may otherwise be lawfully offered or placed in that Member State (including at the initiative of the investor). As at the date of this document,the Company has not been approved, notified or registered in accordance with the AIFMD for marketing to professional investors in any member state of the EEA. However, such approval may be sought or such notification or registration may be made in the future. Therefore this website is only transmitted to an investor in an EEA Member State at such investor’s own initiative. SUCH INFORMATION, INCLUDING RELEVANT RISK FACTORS, IS CONTAINED IN THE COMPANY’S OFFER DOCUMENT WHICH MUST BE READ BY ANY PROSPECTIVE INVESTOR.
Historic Yield: The Historic Yield reflects distributions declared over the past twelve months as a percentage of the share price, as at the date given. It does not include any initial charge and investors may be subject to tax on their distributions. Investors should note that Historic Yield does not measure the overall performance of the Company. It is possible for the Company to lose money overall but to have a positive historic yield. Historic yield cannot be considered as being similar to the interest rate an investor would earn on a savings account.
Information Subject to Change: The information contained herein is subject to change, without notice, at the discretion of Polar Capital and Polar Capital does not undertake to revise or update this information in any way.
Country Specific disclaimers: The Company has not been and will not be registered under the U.S. Investment Company Act of 1940, as amended (the "Investment Company Act") and the holders of its shares will not be entitled to the benefits of the Investment Company Act. In addition, the offer and sale of the Securities have not been, and will not be, registered under the U.S. Securities Act of 1933, as amended (the "Securities Act"). No Securities may be offered or sold or otherwise transacted within the United States or to, or for the account or benefit of U.S. Persons (as defined in Regulation S of the Securities Act). In connection with the transaction referred to in this document the shares of the Fund will be offered and sold only outside the United States to, and for the account or benefit of non U.S. Persons in "offshore- transactions" within the meaning of, and in reliance on the exemption from registration provided by Regulation S under the Securities Act. No money, securities or other consideration is being solicited and, if sent in response to the information contained herein, will not be accepted. Any failure to comply with the above restrictions may constitute a violation of such securities laws.
Fund Manager Commentary As at 31 July 2024
Market review
Financials had a very strong July as softer US inflation data and weaker than expected employment data led to a sharp rotation in equity markets, which benefited the sector. Easing concerns around the outcome of the French election also helped sentiment. Against this background, financials as illustrated by our benchmark index, the MSCI All Country World Financials Index, rose 3.7% while the Trust’s net asset value rose by 4.8% due to strong stock selection. This was partly offset by an underweight exposure to US regional banks, which are seen as beneficiaries of a Trump presidency and were strong following the poor performance of President Biden at the US presidential debate, and overweight exposure to reinsurance stocks which lagged the benchmark.
Insurance
A combination of concerns around the incidence of Atlantic hurricanes this year and the CrowdStrike-induced outage led to some weakness in share prices of the subsector during the month, for example, Arch Capital and Munich Re. Due to La Nina conditions in the Pacific and warmer ocean temperatures, there is an expectation that 2024 will be a much more active hurricane season. Hurricane Beryl is the earliest category 5 hurricane to make landfall in any year on record and added to these concerns. We have a meaningful exposure to reinsurers and we continue to see the risk/reward as attractive as our holdings in Bermuda and Lloyd's of London both trade on low multiples.
Reinsurance rates have risen significantly in recent years and reinsurance companies have used that as an opportunity to conversely reduce the amount of risk they have written, in part reflecting that other classes of business have also seen a sharp increase in rates and profitability as well. The subsector also remains very well capitalised to withstand a large loss, with the usual caveats around any forecasts. Nevertheless, we used the opportunity to sell our holding in Munich Re and reinvest part of the proceeds in Hannover Rueck which, due to its greater use of retrocession (the reinsurance of reinsurance), would be less exposed to a large loss.
Over the past couple of months, we had spent some time doing a deeper dive into cyber risks due to our holding in Beazley having significant exposure, although other holdings all have some. In the risk disclosure, it notes its Solvency II ratio in a one in 250 years cyber event, would remain above 200% all things being equal and we understand this would include an attack on Amazon Web Services and the indirect impacts that this would have on businesses that are reliant on its services. The CrowdStrike-induced outage was not in the playbook but comfort around the minimum time, namely eight hours before a policy comes into effect for a policyholder to make a claim on business interruption, and limits on the amount of individual claims, gave us confidence to use the selloff to add to our holding.
Banks
Banks were a strong contributor to performance in July. In contrast to China and Hong Kong, where financials performed poorly and we have no exposure, Korean banks saw strong gains, with the MSCI Korean Financials Index up 9.3%, following solid results and further momentum in the government’s ‘Corporate Value-Up’ programme designed to enhance shareholder value in a market that has long suffered from the so-called ‘Korean discount’. The Trust’s exposure is through holdings in both Shinhan Financial and KB Financial Group: the former can trace its roots back to 1897 and allegedly made its first loan, if it can be believed, secured against a donkey.
During the month, the government unveiled tax reform proposals which included a reduction in the highest inheritance tax band from 50% to 40% and lower dividend tax for investors of value-up companies. Further proposals included reducing the tax on savings accounts. While the reforms would require bipartisan support, they represent a step in the right direction and demonstrate commitment to the initiatives. Despite the rally in share prices, both banks currently trade at around 0.5x price to book for a 9% return on equity. For comparison, US, European and Japanese banks trade on average at 1.2x, 0.8x and 0.7x price to book ratios for 10.6%, 10.3% and 7.5% return on equity respectively.
Barclays and OSB Group were also strong contributors. Barclays has outperformed this year, with management outlining a credible plan to reallocate capital to higher returning divisions along with the distribution of >£10bn through dividends and buybacks out to 2026 implying a total yield of >10% per annum. As with other UK banks, Barclays’ structural hedge (swaps used to manage interest rate risk) is being reinvested at higher rates, providing a tailwind to earnings supporting a relatively resilient revenue profile. OSB Group performed well, in part, we believe, on relief that the incoming Labour government has not proposed any radical legislation on the buy-to-let market to which it is a large lender.
Volatility
The sharp reversal in the Japanese yen over the past month was not unexpected nor that this would have consequences, but the dramatic crash in Japanese equities at the beginning of August was not expected and brings to mind Mark Twain’s quote: “It ain’t what you don’t know that gets you into trouble. It’s what you know for sure that just ain’t so”. We remain open-minded about the outturn for equity markets. All things being equal, the weaker US employment data, even if distorted by Hurricane Beryl, would suggest the US economy is slowing and the risk of a recession has risen. Conversely, alternative asset managers, that have a very good window into the state of the US economy considering the number of companies they lend to and invest in, are not seeing any concerns as yet.
For example, Mike Arougheti, CEO of Ares Management (a holding in the Trust) noted in response to the recent market sell-off following weak US jobs data, “We don't have a crystal ball, but we have data that we see in our private market portfolios that is telling us something different. And we've been consistent on that. So two years ago, when the markets were calling for a recession, we weren't. And so, we try not to get worked up as long-term investors in any one singular headline. But we are not seeing anything in our private portfolios that would argue for what we're seeing in the market today. I personally feel like it's an overreaction, but we'll keep collecting data and react accordingly.”
Nick Brind
Nick’s experience comes from running specialist and generalist funds with UK and global mandates for the past 25+ years
George Barrow
George is a specialist financials fund manager as well as an analyst across Europe, Asia and emerging markets
Historical Fact Sheets