Current context
Global equity markets recovered sharply in the first quarter of 2019. The MSCI World Index delivered a total return of 12.6% and the MSCI Emerging Markets Index returned 9.9%. The JSE’s recovery was more lacklustre: the FTSE/JSE All Share Index gained 8.0% and was dominated by rand hedges, especially resources and Naspers. Domestic counters were material underperformers. The FTSE/JSE Small Cap Index lost 3.4% and financials declined over the quarter.

Our perspective
As we have noted for some time, there is pervasive fear in certain parts of investment markets. This is in complete contrast to other areas that are well owned and in which investors are inclined to be complacent. Markets therefore continue to be characterised by wide valuation divergences. We are finding far more opportunities in those parts where investors are fearful, especially in the SA Inc. part of the domestic market, which has endured tough economic conditions and aggressive selling by foreigners in recent years. In fact, our bottom-up analysis is indicating valuations usually seen in deep bear markets. For longer-term investors who can ride out the storm, the return profile from carefully selected securities at such low valuation levels is promising.

Portfolio positioning
The fund is actively harvesting the best ideas on PSG’s buy lists. We have been using market conditions to acquire a portfolio of above-average quality companies at deeply discounted prices, both locally and globally.

The wide discount between share prices and our appraisals of intrinsic value suggests that favourable relative performance should be achieved over the long run.