MFS Meridian Global Equity A1 EUR |



by Eva Cook

MFS Global Equity retains the qualities we admire: a pair of insightful portfolio managers who actively look to harness the firm’s extensive research staff while patiently implementing their well-trodden process benefiting from their long-term horizon. Comanagers Roger Morley and Ryan McAllister uphold a long-standing tradition of investing in reasonably priced companies with long-term, above-average, durable growth. Morley has long tenure at the firm, while McAllister’s transition to comanager in 2016 has been as smooth as could be hoped for. He has steadily broadened his knowledge across industries and has worked cohesively with Morley. Further, we think the duo utilizes MFS’ broader analyst team very effectively. Their long-term perspective remains paramount in gauging their colleagues’ insights on company and industry-level views, and the portfolio managers’ clear recall of how their historic views have evolved reinforces the consistency of the approach taken. The methodical approach is disciplined and ignores index weightings, as seen in its long-standing skew to industrials and healthcare companies at the expense of commodities and technology. Tension in balancing quality and value is inevitable, but sensible portfolio construction has been executed well. That said, it hasn’t all been plain sailing. Emphasizing valuation has cost the managers some opportunities, as they waited for the “ideal” time to invest. This has been most evident in the IT sector. Disappointment over subpar performance is understandable, though it is in line with expectations in a concentrated high-growth environment. Moreover, the market’s abandonment of high-flying growth stocks in 2022 and 2023 was a reminder that styles can shift from favor swiftly. The team has also continued to identify longer-term winners elsewhere. MFS has a demonstrated history of putting client interests ahead of its own when it comes to managing capacity in both its Core and Concentrated global equity strategies. MFS Global Equity retains significant competitive strengths, underpinning our positive conviction in the strategy. The primary vehicle from which this strategy’s pillar ratings are derived is the MFS Global Equity Trust W, ticker 4532. |
Morningstar Pillars | |
People | High |
Parent | High |
Process | Above Average |
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