Market Overview - Markets rebounded in Q2 2025 after a correction in Q1, overcoming tariff concerns and geopolitical tensions, with solid gains reported [2] - The U.S.-China trade situation improved, leading to lower tariffs and increased exports of rare earth metals from China to the U.S. [2] - The end of a conflict between Israel and Iran in June further supported market sentiment [2] Infrastructure Performance - Listed infrastructure showed resilience during market volatility, outperforming the broader market in April and maintaining stability through May and June [3] - Western Europe emerged as the strongest regional performer, benefiting from interest rate cuts by the European Central Bank and Germany's fiscal stimulus focused on infrastructure spending [4] Key Contributors - E.On, a leading German electric utility, was the top performer in Western Europe, supported by structural reforms and significant grid investment potential [5] - French toll road operator Vinci also performed well, aided by positive operational momentum and significant free cash flow generation [6] Detractors - U.S. energy infrastructure company ONEOK and Canadian company Pembina Pipeline were the largest detractors, primarily due to OPEC+ decisions affecting oil prices [7] - Pembina Pipeline's performance was impacted by market concerns over toll renegotiations, although it remains a leader in the growing Western Canadian Sedimentary Basin [8] Outlook - The current environment is characterized by volatility, but confidence remains in utility and infrastructure assets for generating consistent cash flows [9] - Infrastructure investments are expected to benefit from inflation pass-through mechanisms, with approximately 90% of the portfolio linked to such mechanisms [9] Portfolio Highlights - The strategy saw positive contributions from six out of seven sectors, with electric utilities, airports, water, and toll roads being the top contributors [13] - The top individual stock contributors included Constellation Energy, E.On, Severn Trent, SSE, and Vinci, while ONEOK and Pembina Pipeline were the main detractors [14]