Chinese markets rose in December, ending a year of strong gains.
Economic indicators were mixed over the month, with the NBS manufacturing PMI down (50.5 in December compared with 51.5 in November) and the non-manufacturing PMI up (52.2 in December compared with 50 in November).
China's leaders have reaffirmed their intention to step up fiscal measures in the months ahead, particularly during the Two Sessions in March.
Over the month, the indices were up by 5.53% for the Hang Seng and 1.55% for the CSI 300.
Performance commentary
Against this backdrop, the fund delivered a positive performance in line with its reference indicator.
Our strategy benefited greatly from its allocation to the technology sector, particularly Taiwanese companies such as TSMC, Wiwynn and Elite Material.
Our portfolio of Chinese consumer discretionary stocks also made a positive contribution to performance, such as New Oriental Education, Yadea and H world.
Finally, we also benefited from our holdings in industrial stocks Sinotrans Ltd, which is involved in logistics activities, and EHang, which offers mobility solutions.
Outlook strategy
Although we remain constructive on the Chinese markets in the long term, we are maintaining a cautious stance in the short term, as we await further stimulus announcements from the Chinese government in the wake of Donald Trump's election as President of the United States.
Indeed, Donald Trump's protectionist policies, with tariffs on imports, mainly from China, and the ‘Two Sessions’ in March, are keeping the wind of uncertainty blowing.
We are closely monitoring each of our Chinese positions and their valuation, with the aim of remaining disciplined in calibrating our positions. We have taken profits on some of our Chinese positions, which have rebounded strongly in recent days, and for which the valuation argument has become less attractive.
Over the month, we added two stocks to our portfolio: Gudeng Precision Industrial, a manufacturer of photographic moulds for the semiconductor industry, and we invested in Mao Geping Cosmetics, a Chinese player in the cosmetics industry.
Reference to certain securities and financial instruments is for illustrative purposes to highlight stocks that are or have been included in the portfolios of funds in the Carmignac range. This is not intended to promote direct investment in those instruments, nor does it constitute investment advice. The Management Company is not subject to prohibition on trading in these instruments prior to issuing any communication. The portfolios of Carmignac funds may change without previous notice.
The reference to a ranking or prize, is no guarantee of the future results of the UCIS or the manager.
The information presented above is not contractually binding and does not constitute investment advice. Past performance is not a reliable indicator of future performance. Performance is shown net of fees (excluding any subscription fees payable to the distributor). Investors may lose some or all of their capital, as the capital in the UCI is not guaranteed. Access to the products and services presented herein may be restricted for some individuals or countries. Taxation depends on the situation of the individual. The risks, fees and recommended investment period for the UCI presented are detailed in the KIDs (key information documents) and prospectuses available on this website. The KID must be made available to the subscriber prior to purchase.
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Market environment