Core Insights - The current market presents a unique opportunity for international deep value investing, with significant discounts in international stocks compared to U.S. equities, particularly in Europe and Asia [2][4][5] Valuation Discrepancies - As of late 2025, international stocks are trading at their steepest discount to U.S. equities in over two decades, with the MSCI EAFE Index at approximately half the forward price-to-earnings multiple of the S&P 500 [2][4] - The deep-value segment of international markets is in the bottom decile of historical valuations, indicating extraordinary cheapness [4][5] Market Dynamics - A decade of U.S. market dominance has led to skepticism towards international markets, despite their current undervaluation [5][6] - The Federal Reserve's interest rate policies have strengthened the dollar, making international assets less attractive, but this creates opportunities as the dollar normalizes [6][7] Investment Strategy - The value factor, which involves buying companies at a discount to their intrinsic worth, has historically delivered superior returns, especially when combined with international diversification [8] - An asset-based approach is crucial for identifying deep value opportunities, focusing on companies trading below the value of their actual assets [9][10] Regional Opportunities - Europe is experiencing a structural change with increased infrastructure and defense spending, creating opportunities in construction materials and industrial sectors [13] - Japan's corporate governance reforms are leading to improved capital allocation and shareholder returns, unlocking previously ignored value [14] - Emerging markets, particularly Brazil and India, present extraordinary value despite current challenges [15] Specific Company Examples - LEG Immobilien SE operates in the German residential housing market, benefiting from a structural housing shortage and maintaining strong financial performance [22][23][24] - Aida Engineering Ltd is positioned to capitalize on the transition to electric vehicles and fuel cell technology, trading at a valuation that reflects stagnation rather than growth [29][34] - KNOT Offshore Partners LP operates specialized shuttle tankers with contracted cash flows, trading at a valuation that suggests significant undervaluation [39][45] Historical Context - Historical patterns indicate that periods of deep value underperformance often precede substantial returns for value investors [20][50] - Current market conditions resemble past cycles where undervalued, fundamentally sound businesses eventually gained recognition [55][58]