Last updated {{time}} {{Date}}
2. Source: HSBC, Polar Capital. As at market close.
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2. Source: HSBC, Polar Capital. 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) | 1.21 | 5.76 | 21.16 | 30.98 | 104.75 |
NAV per Share (TR) | 0.92 | 4.69 | 18.25 | 28.01 | 111.06 |
Benchmark | 1.04 | 4.85 | 15.62 | 26.71 | 103.64 |
Discrete performance (%) | 31.08.23 30.08.24 | 31.08.22 31.08.23 | 31.08.21 31.08.22 | 28.08.20 31.08.21 | 30.08.19 28.08.20 |
---|---|---|---|---|---|
Ordinary Share Price (TR) | 30.98 | -3.13 | -9.76 | 62.24 | -18.39 |
NAV per Share (TR) | 28.01 | -1.49 | -0.54 | 41.36 | -12.87 |
Benchmark | 26.71 | 1.05 | 3.20 | 37.53 | -13.56 |
As at 30 August, 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 30 August, 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: HSBC, Polar Capital. 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) | 1.21 | 5.76 | 21.16 | 30.98 | 14.50 | 104.75 | 144.99 |
NAV per Share (TR) | 0.92 | 4.69 | 18.25 | 28.01 | 25.41 | 111.06 | 174.66 |
MSCI ACWI Financials (NTR) | 1.04 | 4.85 | 15.62 | 26.71 | 32.15 | 103.64 | 172.03 |
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 | 31.08.23 30.08.24 | 31.08.22 31.08.23 | 31.08.21 31.08.22 | 28.08.20 31.08.21 | 30.08.19 28.08.20 | |
---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
Ordinary Share Price (TR) | 30.41 | 30.98 | -3.13 | -9.76 | 62.24 | -18.39 |
NAV per Share (TR) | 23.75 | 28.01 | -1.49 | -0.54 | 41.36 | -12.87 |
MSCI ACWI Financials (NTR) | 21.46 | 26.71 | 1.05 | 3.20 | 37.53 | -13.56 |
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 | 6.5 | |
Mastercard | 5.2 | |
Chubb | 3.2 | |
Visa | 2.8 | |
UniCredit | 2.6 | |
Intercontinental Exchange | 2.5 | |
Goldman Sachs Group | 2.3 | |
Erste Group Bank AG | 2.3 | |
Fidelity National Information | 2.3 | |
Marsh McLennan | 2.2 | |
Top 10 Holdings | 31.9 | |
Rest of Portfolio | 68.1 |
Total Number of Positions 82
Financial Services | 36.7 | |
Banks | 34.4 | |
Insurance | 21.3 | |
Fixed Income | 7.6 | |
Note: Totals may not sum due to rounding.
Key | GBP | |
Total Net Assets | £579.4m | |
AIC Gearing Ratio | 4.70% | |
AIC Net Cash Ratio | n/a | |
Mega Cap (>USD$ 112.43 bn) | 33.0 | |
Large Cap (USD$ 40.34 - 112.43 bn) | 30.7 | |
Mid Cap (USD$ 14.16 - 40.34 bn) | 15.4 | |
Small Cap (USD$ 5.32 - 14.16 bn) | 8.5 | |
Smallest Cap (<USD $ 5.32 bn) | 12.4 |
Market capitalisation ranges are defined by Polar Capital and are subject to change.
North America | 50.6 | |
Europe | 16.6 | |
UK | 12.6 | |
Asia Pac (ex-Japan) | 9.2 | |
Fixed Income | 7.6 | |
Japan | 3.5 | |
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 30 August 2024
Market review
Despite a sharp selloff in equity markets at the beginning of the month, as weaker US economic data and an unwinding of yen carry trades caused a jump in volatility, financials and broader equity markets hit all-time highs. Federal Reserve Chair Jerome Powell’s dovish comments at the Fed’s annual symposium in Jackson Hole towards the end of the month had little impact on financial markets but reaffirmed the consensus view that the US would start cutting interest rates in September. Against this background the Trust’s NAV rose by 0.9% compared to the benchmark index, the MSCI All Country World Financials Index, which rose 1.0%.
Insurance
Our insurance holdings were a positive driver of performance in August with the likes of Hannover Rueck and Beazley both performing well after positive results and hitting all-time highs as they recovered from weakness in July. That weakness in the subsector was in part over concerns that the Atlantic hurricane season will be much more active this year, so far thankfully proven incorrect, while SCOR*, a French reinsurer, had a profit warning regarding its reserving in its US life and health book which also put pressure on other shares.
The CrowdStrike outage which led to weakness in Beazley’s shares in July has been estimated as upwards of a $1bn insured loss for the industry, substantially below what would be expected for a malicious cyberattack. It is believed the losses are concentrated on a small number of large companies and therefore unevenly distributed between those that underwrite cyber insurance. Demand picks up after events and there are early signs there has been a tightening in terms and conditions which if sustained will be positive for Beazley.
Berkshire Hathaway
An underweight position in Berkshire Hathaway was a drag on performance during the month. We reduced our holding a few months ago as a big attraction of owning the stock was its insurance businesses. This led to a big jump in earnings over the past couple of years, on top of the significant investment gains from its equity investments – strong tailwinds it had benefited from which would not continue at the rate they had. Consequently, we saw better value adding to other insurance holdings where valuations were and are much lower.
The company announced second quarter results during the month. Most notable was the sale of a further $75bn of equities, in particular Apple which has received wide coverage, but latterly Bank of America stock as well. As a result, cash and short-term securities have risen by $100bn in 2024 to over $270bn. Buffet hinted at lower buybacks at their AGM in May, suggesting he saw less value in them, and results show that buybacks were only $345m during the quarter, down by nearly 75% on the previous year. Including Q1, buybacks totalled $2.9bn, which compares to the peak of $18bn of buybacks in the second half of 2020.
OSB Group
OSB Group was also a drag on performance during the month. It is primarily a specialist buy-to-let lender that has consistently delivered high-teens and higher return on equity, reflecting its focus on niche lending segments coupled with a very efficient platform, with some of its operations handled in India. Poor communication by management led to a sharp fall in the share price as guidance for the outlook for net interest margins and therefore profitability was reduced in the short term and worries about increased competition surfaced.
There is a saying that profit warnings come in threes. We bought a holding in November 2023 and have added to it on a couple of occasions, after the bank first warned on earnings in July 2023. This is the third warning and despite that mistake we are still sitting on a profit, albeit now smaller. There is a risk that there is further weakening in guidance in the short term but with the shares trading at less than 4.5x earnings, which has been reduced a number of times, for a business we see as well capitalised and very profitable we are happy to continue to hold.
Bank exposure
The Trust’s bank exposure has been cut by over 20% over the past year and is down by nearly half from what it was at the end of 2022. In the past year we saw other areas of the sector that offered more attractive returns to benefit from the softer landing narrative and pickup in activity in financial markets this year, such as alternative asset managers. We also added to our insurance holdings, starting new positions in the likes of Allstate and Progressive in the US and Sabre Insurance Group in the UK to benefit from the tailwind in the motor insurance market.
Consequently, we are currently underweight banking stocks overall and it is only in Europe where we have an overweight position. European bank stocks have performed very well over the past few years on the back of rising interest rates, which has led to very strong positive earnings revisions. With the interest rate cycle turning down, the test will be to what extent the market does not appreciate that earnings estimates already assume eurozone interest rates falling from 4.25% to around 2.5% and/or risk that market expectations for the speed or number of interest rate cuts increases.
*not held in the Trust
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
Tom Dorner
Tom joined Polar Capital in 2023 and is the analyst responsible for the global insurance sector
Historical Fact Sheets