Mar Vista’s U.S. Quality Strategy Divested Its Stake in Equifax (EFX)

Core Insights - Mar Vista Investment Partners reported a strong performance in U.S. equities for 2025, marking the second consecutive year of double-digit gains, with a notable recovery from a bear market dip in April [1] - The Mar Vista U.S. Quality strategy achieved a net-of-fees gain of +0.20% in Q4 2025, underperforming the Russell 1000® Index (+2.41%) and the S&P 500® Index (+2.65%) [1] - Stock selection in communication services, consumer discretionary, and financials sectors positively impacted performance, while information technology, materials, and healthcare sectors detracted from it [1] - The outlook for 2026 suggests a need for balance between strong fundamentals and increasing economic uncertainties [1] Company-Specific Insights - Equifax Inc. (NYSE:EFX) was highlighted in the investor letter, with a one-month return of 0.83% and a 52-week loss of 12.68% [2] - As of January 12, 2026, Equifax's stock closed at $221.63 per share, with a market capitalization of $27.248 billion [2] - Mar Vista divested its position in Equifax during Q4 2025 due to strategic shifts by FICO, which plans to sell credit scores directly to mortgage underwriters, increasing uncertainty in the credit-scoring value chain [3] - The decision to exit the position was influenced by a slower-than-expected recovery in the housing market and a weakened risk-reward profile for the investment [3]