First Quarter 2012 Attribution vs. Russell 1000 Growth Index
Information technology. Security selection and an overweight to information technology was the most significant contributor to relative returns. Holdings within the application software and computer storage industries outperformed. We continue to favor this sector due to its generally higher growth potential, higher cash flows and lower debt levels, as well as valuations we view as attractive. Moreover, information technology companies are actively participating in many of long-term global secular growth themes, including consumer demand for products and services that provide access to information and entertainment, and businesses’ drive to enhance productivity in a competitive global economy.
Consumer staples. Security selection and an underweight to the consumer staples sector added value, with holdings within soft drinks and personal products industries contributing to returns. Within the sector, we are favoring companies with growing niche brands and those with strong global operations.
Consumer discretionary. Security selection within the consumer discretionary sector was additive to performance. The portfolio’s top holdings within the sector are in the Internet retail industry. After detracting last quarter, these names bounced back and performed particularly well. We maintain conviction in these companies and believe they are well positioned to capitalize upon global secular trends. Broadly within the sector, we are attracted to global businesses with strong brands and diversified revenues, as well as those servicing a growing and maturing consumer base within the emerging markets.
Materials. Security selection within materials detracted value. Holdings within the gold industry were negative for relative performance as these firms incurred rising extraction costs. Gold was the outlier within the metals and mining industry as other metal-related companies generated positive returns during the period. We continue to believe the materials sector will be supported by increased demand for resources from emerging market regions, as well as by reflation efforts and accommodative central bank policies. We are focused on long-term opportunities within the diversified metals and mining, fertilizers and agricultural chemicals, and gold industries.
Energy. Security selection within energy detracted from relative returns. Holdings within the oil/gas exploration and production, drilling and equipment and services industries underperformed. We maintain our conviction within the sector. We believe the portfolio’s energy holdings should benefit from reflation efforts as well as from strong global demand for energy resources, especially within developing economies. Our focus remains on the oil/gas equipment and services, drilling and exploration, and production industries.