Are we due a re-run of the Roaring Twenties? And if so, what does that mean? A look back at the world’s last post-pandemic recovery and a bit more besides.

Last year could well be the year that sustainable investing hit the mainstream. David Harrison explains how his fund handily outperformed its benchmark, and outlines key themes he believes are here to stay. Our fund has the freedom to search the world for the very best investments; find out where David sees opportunities to make returns and a difference.

Manager James Thomson describes 2020 as a “socialising recession”. In 2021, the pent-up demand to rekindle friendships, restock our wardrobes and take our travel plans out of deep-freeze should mean “revenge spending” is coming. Combined with huge stimulus, low interest rates and reflationary policies, this has convinced James to pivot toward beneficiaries of reopening.

Our fund ended 2020 on a high, thanks to strong individual stock picks and the last-minute agreement of a post-Brexit trade deal. Alexandra Jackson sheds light on her ‘Best of British’ plays, including tech firms, cyber-security businesses and renewable providers to name a few. She also runs through the outlook for UK Plc, asking whether investor confidence is returning to our isles.

Our fund aims for low-volatility returns, yet that doesn’t mean it can’t take advantage of market swings. Bryn Jones describes the key themes within his fund and where he’s finding opportunities. He also takes a view on the debt burden from the unparalleled fiscal response to COVID-19.

Fund performance was good last year, helped by staying light on duration and heavier on credit risk. Bryn Jones explains how his team navigated the volatility of 2020.  He highlights big themes with big consequences for investing: from the Anthropocene’s impact on the planet to the demographic and political effects of the Millennial cohort coming of age. 

One of the lowest drawdowns in the IA Corporate Bond sector illustrates our fund’s defensive nature. Noelle Cazalis explains how her fund outperformed its benchmark last year, and why she is increasing duration by buying slightly longer-dated bonds in 2021. She also outlines the industries she is positive about and details those she is avoiding.

After a strong final quarter to 2020, Carl Stick outlines why he is excited about the UK equity sector post-Brexit, and outlines the potential for UK companies to invest today in improving their businesses to lay the foundation for sustainable dividend increases in the coming years.