Third Avenue Value Fund Q4 2025 Commentary

Performance Overview - The Third Avenue Value Fund achieved a return of 7.47% for the three months ended December 31, 2025, outperforming the MSCI World Index at 3.12% and the MSCI World Value Index at 3.34% [3] - For the year-to-date period, the Fund returned 35.46%, significantly higher than the MSCI World Index and MSCI World Value Index, which returned 21.09% and 20.79%, respectively [3] - Annualized performance for the trailing three-year and five-year periods was 16.76% and 18.00%, respectively [3] Key Contributors to Performance - Warrior Met Coal was the largest contributor to the Fund's performance, followed by Lundin Mining and Capstone Copper [4] - Bank of Ireland and Horiba also made significant positive contributions during the quarter [4] - Warrior Met Coal began commercial-scale mining at its Blue Creek project ahead of schedule, positively impacting revenue and cash flow [5] European Holdings - The Fund's Western European holdings, including Bank of Ireland, Buzzi Spa, and BMW, contributed positively to performance [6] - A weaker U.S. dollar enhanced returns for euro-denominated investments, which comprise over 70% of the portfolio [6] Banking Sector Insights - Bank of Ireland and Deutsche Bank have improved their operating performance, leading to better valuations and increased returns on capital [7] - Deutsche Bank shares traded above book value for the first time since the global financial crisis, marking a significant milestone [8] Copper Market Dynamics - Lundin Mining and Capstone Copper were significant contributors to performance, driven by the indispensable nature of copper in modern economies [9] - The supply of copper has proven challenging to increase, leading to a looming supply gap as demand accelerates [13] Japanese Investments - The performance of Japanese investments was mixed, with Horiba contributing positively while JEOL detracted from performance [15] - Subaru performed well despite concerns over U.S. import tariffs, achieving a total return of 26.28% in 2025 [16] Energy Sector Performance - The Fund's oil and gas-related businesses did not perform well in 2025, with significant headwinds affecting offshore energy service sectors [21] - Delays in offshore projects and changes in spending by major producers created challenges for the sector [21] Resource Conversion Activities - The Fund engaged in robust resource conversion activities, including acquisitions and divestitures, to enhance shareholder value [27] - Harbour Energy executed several strategic transactions, significantly shifting its production base and improving its financial position [28] New Investments - The Fund initiated a position in T.S. Lines Ltd., a container shipping company focused on routes within the Asia-Pacific region, which is expected to benefit from growing trade activity [35] - T.S. Lines has a strong balance sheet and operates a younger fleet, positioning it well for future growth [37]