We’re at the early stages of a UK equity surge: Guy Anderson of Mercantile Trust
Jun 18, 2024
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Guy Anderson, fund manager of Mercantile Trust, discusses opportunities in UK stocks, M&A activity, risks in UK mid-caps, and the importance of dividends with the host. They delve into metrics for stock selection, exposure to housebuilders, and the impact of AI on portfolios.
Mercantile Trust focuses on quality UK mid-caps with strong cash flows for dividend accumulation.
Company-specific bottom-up approach justifies Mercantile's continued elevated gearing levels for market optimism.
Deep dives
Investing in UK Mid-Caps: Optimism Amid Economic Challenges
Despite recent market struggles, Mercantile Investment Trust is optimistic about UK mid-caps' outlook due to their historical growth rates and current undervaluation. Smaller companies' cyclical nature challenges recent performance, but economic indicators suggest potential growth. Negative sentiment towards the UK market overlooks strong economic data and creates investment opportunities.
Stability and Government Support for UK Stock Market
Political instability affects UK market perception negatively, impacting investor confidence. Consistent government output is crucial for market stability. Regulatory changes to improve UK listing appeal and increase domestic investments are necessary. Stability and clear economic policies are essential for market growth.
Evaluating Gearing Levels and Economic Indicators
Mercantile Investment Trust maintains elevated gearing levels to capitalize on market optimism. Company-specific bottom-up approach justifies gearing adjustments. Monitoring economic cycles, political landscape, and potential risks influences portfolio decisions. Anticipating better economic conditions supports gearing strategies.
Fundamentals-Driven Investment Strategy and Market Opportunities
Mercantile prioritizes meeting management teams and analyzing businesses for long-term growth potential. Returns on invested capital, profit margins, and cash generation are key metrics. Portfolio adjustments reflect increased exposure to UK sectors like consumer discretionary and housebuilders. Focus on company fundamentals guides investment decisions.
Guy Anderson, fund manager of Mercantile Trust, joins Val Cipriani on the latest IC Interviews podcast. The trust is run by JP Morgan and is built on a bottom-up approach, focusing on quality UK mid-caps with strong cash flows that will accumulate dividends over time.
In this episode, the two discuss the drivers behind the trust’s success and investment process, opportunities in the UK stock market, M&A activity and more.
Timestamps
00:58 UK mid-caps
4:28 The UK stock market
8:13 Red flags for gearing
10:20 - The metrics that sound out when picking a stock