YTD Review and 2023 Impact Report Webinar

Webinar Sections:

Strategy Review

Outlook

2023 Impact Report

Q&A

The 10th annual Impact Report from the Pengana WHEB Sustainable Impact Fund (Titled: Staying the course for a more sustainable future) represents yet another step forward in terms of quality and insight and underscores our clear intention to invest in companies that provide solutions to critical sustainability challenges, connecting our investors with a brighter, healthier future – for people and the planet.

In the Fund’s latest webinar, Seb Beloe, Partner and Head of Research as well as Associate Fund Manager Ty Lee discuss the findings from WHEB’s 2023 Impact Report along with an update on the WHEB sustainable strategy.

CPD points applicable for Australian Financial Planners

Webinar Highlights:

• Market Conditions and Performance: The market environment was challenging for the strategy, with strong performance from non-impactful and non-investable companies (including six of the Magnificent Seven group of stocks) driving the outperformance of the MSCI World Index. Despite this, the fund has shown resilience, and we believe that as economic fundamentals overtake interest rates as the equity market’s driving force, our strategy will benefit.
• Sustainable Investing Opportunities: While sustainable equity funds experienced some outflows, this presents a unique value opportunity. The sector’s recent challenges highlight the importance of transparency, which the fund is committed to upholding, enhancing its long-term attractiveness.
• Electric Vehicle Market Growth: Despite short-term challenges in countries like Italy, Germany, and the US, the EV market is set for substantial growth, with an anticipated annual increase of 21% through 2027. This growth phase offers exciting investment opportunities throughout the value chain, especially as more affordable EV options become available.
• Fund Performance Highlights:  The water management and health themes have demonstrated strong performance over the 2024 financial year and calendar year to date. Innovative companies such as CSL, Veralto, Xylem, and Ecolab within these themes have shown significant contributions, underscoring the fund’s commitment to impactful investments.
• Impact Reporting and Positive Engagement: The team’s dedication to transparency and high standards in impact reporting has been recognised as setting a benchmark in the industry. Their proactive engagement with portfolio companies has driven meaningful sustainability initiatives, reinforcing the fund’s positive impact and future growth potential.