MKOR which cut its PM team, has still managed to deliver the goods in a big way since I last covered it (outperformed global and EMs by 3-5x). MKOR still offers high projected earnings growth of 17% at a forward P/E of 8.7x, making it a rare blend of value and growth, and better than EMs and globalmarkets. While MKOR's expense ratio and portfolio churn are higher than passive peers, its diversified top holdings and lower volatility provide a more defensive South Korea exposure.
MKOR hit a new 52-week high after surging 172% from its low, aided by South Korea's chip-driven rally.
The Matthews Korea Active ETF, which took over from the Matthews Korea Fund in 2023, has done reasonably well in the grand scheme of things. While it may not be as cheap and stable as EWY, it shines in other areas. Unlike a lot of other trade partners of the US, South Korea won't be vulnerable to the threat of reciprocal tariffs, but could face challenges if the US employs non-tariff barriers.
| Name | Quantity | Cost | Value | Profit ($) | Gain (%) |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| JDK John D. Kast Matthews International Capital Management LLC | 5,032 | $129,474.68 | $269,463.6 | $139,988.92 | 108.12% |
| ARCA Exchange | US Country |
The company operates as an investment fund that targets the South Korean market, specifically focusing on the equity sector. It commits to invest at least 80% of its net assets, which also account for borrowings earmarked for investment purposes, in both common and preferred stocks of companies that are located within South Korea. This approach signifies a dedicated investment strategy aimed at leveraging the economic and corporate growth potential within South Korea, tapping into various industries through equity investments. The company's investment objective underlines its intention to generate returns for its investors by engaging in a market with a robust economic framework and a diverse corporate landscape.
This represents the fund's investments in common shares of South Korean companies. Common stocks offer shareholders ownership in a company, including voting rights and the potential for capital gains through share price increases. By investing in common stocks, the fund aims to capitalize on the growth of its portfolio companies, aligning with its overall investment strategy.
As part of its diversified approach, the fund also invests in preferred stocks of companies located in South Korea. Preferred stocks come with a higher claim on assets and earnings than common stocks, such as dividends that are paid out before any dividends to common shareholders. These investments are aimed at providing a more stable income stream and adding a layer of security to the fund's investment portfolio.
The fund incorporates a strategy of utilizing borrowings to further its investment objectives. This involves leveraging additional capital on top of the net assets to invest in the equity market. The use of leverage can enhance the returns on investment but also comes with higher risks and costs. This strategic approach is adopted to optimize the fund’s performance by enabling larger investments in chosen stocks, thereby potentially increasing the return on equity for investors.