Baron International Growth Fund Q2 2025 Shareholder Letter

Performance Overview - Baron International Growth Fund gained 16.91% during Q2 2025, outperforming its benchmark MSCI ACWI ex USA Index, which appreciated 12.03% [3] - The Fund has exceeded both the Benchmark and Proxy Benchmark on a one-year trailing basis [3] Annualized Performance - For the 1-year period ended June 30, 2025, the Fund's Institutional Shares returned 19.72%, compared to 17.72% for the MSCI ACWI ex USA Index [4] - Over the last 3 years, the Fund's Institutional Shares returned 10.34%, while the Benchmark returned 13.99% [4] Market Catalysts - The U.S. trade/tariff policy pivot and strong momentum towards a pro-growth tax reduction and fiscal spending bill were key drivers of global capital markets [5] - Despite tariff deferrals, there remains a risk of retaliation and a weaker U.S. dollar, which could shift capital flows towards non-dollar assets [5] Sector Performance - The Energy sector, particularly investments in Waga Energy SA, was the largest contributor to the Fund's relative performance [6] - Strong stock selection in Consumer Staples and Industrials sectors also contributed positively, while Health Care sector allocation detracted from performance [6] Country Contributions - Overweight positioning in Korea, particularly in shipbuilding, significantly contributed to relative performance [7] - Positive stock selection in France, India, and Israel also bolstered results, while China showed modest adverse stock selection effects [7] Top Contributors - HD Korea Shipbuilding & Offshore Engineering Co., Ltd. contributed 1.66% to returns, driven by improving profit margins and backlog growth [8] - Waga Energy SA and ODDITY Tech Ltd. also made significant contributions, with returns of 1.48% and 1.01% respectively [9] Top Detractors - Alibaba Group Holding Limited detracted 0.26% from performance due to results that fell short of investor expectations amid geopolitical uncertainty [12] - Full Truck Alliance Co. Ltd. and Argenx SE also detracted from performance due to revised earnings guidance and sales below expectations, respectively [13][14] Recent Activity - New investments were made in Centum Electronics Limited and XP Inc., focusing on global security and fintech disruption themes [22][24] - Increased exposure to existing positions, including AMG Critical Materials N.V. and SK hynix Inc., while exiting several positions to concentrate on higher conviction investments [26] Outlook - The Fund anticipates continued relative outperformance of non-U.S. equities, driven by changing U.S. priorities and fiscal expansion in the EU [30] - The focus remains on sectors and companies positioned to benefit from geopolitical shifts and technological advancements, particularly in Korea and India [32]