Core Insights - SWAN Capital LLC increased its stake in the Vanguard International Dividend Appreciation ETF by acquiring an additional 35,964 shares, valued at approximately $3.19 million, bringing the total stake to $8.02 million at the end of the third quarter [1][2]. Investment Activity - The acquisition of shares occurred during the third quarter, with the previous stake valued at $4.83 million [2]. - Following the purchase, VIGI represented 3.25% of SWAN Capital's reportable assets, which totaled $246.64 million as of September 30, 2025 [7]. ETF Overview - The Vanguard International Dividend Appreciation ETF (VIGI) focuses on non-U.S. companies committed to increasing dividends over time, with a market capitalization of $9.22 billion as of November 15, 2025 [5]. - As of November 14, 2025, VIGI's price was $90.51, with a trailing twelve-month dividend yield of 1.87% and a one-year total return of 12.24% [4][7]. Performance Metrics - VIGI's performance slightly underperformed the S&P 500 by 0.48 percentage points over the past year [7]. - The ETF's expense ratio is ultra-low at 0.1%, allowing most gains to benefit investors directly [9]. Portfolio Composition - The ETF is structured to replicate its benchmark index, holding a diversified basket of international equities [5][8]. - Its top five holdings include two financial firms, a drugmaker, a food and beverage company, and an enterprise software business [10]. Dividend Distribution - The quarterly dividends from VIGI may vary, as many international companies do not follow the typical quarterly payout schedule familiar to U.S. investors [11].

Core Insights - U.S. stock indices are reaching record highs, but international markets are outperforming them in 2025, marking a shift from the previous decade of U.S. dominance [1] - Many regions in Europe, Asia, and Latin America are cutting interest rates, creating a more predictable investment environment compared to the U.S., which is facing trade and inflation uncertainties [1] - The decline of the U.S. dollar in 2025 has positively impacted international stocks, particularly for U.S. dollar-based investors [1] - Valuations in U.S. equities have become high, prompting investors to seek opportunities in markets with lower price-to-earnings ratios [1] - Increased military-industrial spending in Europe due to geopolitical tensions is attracting investment interest [1] Market Dynamics - The easing cycle in various global markets contrasts with the Federal Reserve's cautious approach, leading to a shift in investment focus [1] - The current market environment is characterized by a lack of innovation in some international markets, but this is offset by regulatory predictability [1] - The trend of international diversification is gaining traction as investors look for opportunities outside the U.S. [1]

Group 1 - The S&P 500 and NASDAQ are reaching new all-time highs, with valuations significantly above historical averages, suggesting a potential need for international diversification in investment strategies [1] Group 2 - Philipp is a value investor with nearly 20 years of experience, focusing on global investment opportunities and seeking undervalued companies that provide a significant margin of safety, attractive dividend yields, and returns [2] - The investment strategy emphasizes understanding companies thoroughly and assessing their future growth potential, particularly favoring those with a solid earnings track record trading at less than 8 times free cash flow [2]

Group 1 - The article expresses reservations about international diversification through passive ETFs, particularly those focusing on developed markets excluding the US [1] - The Franklin International Core Dividend Tilt Index ETF (NYSEARCA: DIVI) is highlighted as one of the few ETFs in this category [1] - The author has extensive experience in quantitative research, financial modeling, and risk management, emphasizing a focus on equity valuation and market trends [1] Group 2 - The author, a former Vice President at Barclays, has led teams in model validation and stress testing, showcasing expertise in both fundamental and technical analysis [1] - The research approach combines rigorous risk management with a long-term perspective on value creation, with a focus on macroeconomic trends and corporate earnings [1] - The goal is to provide actionable investment ideas for those seeking to outperform the market [1]

Investment Rating - The report maintains an "Overweight" (OW) position on cash, equities, credit, and bonds, while being "Underweight" (UW) on commodities for the next three months [3][21]. Core Insights - Emerging Market (EM) equities have shown resilience despite tariff uncertainties, with a projected earnings growth of 10% to 11% for CY 2025/26, which is 2-3 percentage points higher than previous forecasts [2][6]. - The S&P 500 had its best May performance since 1990, outperforming EM equities year-to-date, although EM equities have generally outperformed US equities in the same period [2][7]. - A weaker US Dollar is expected to support EM outperformance, as EM equities have historically benefited from a weaker Dollar [2][14]. Summary by Sections Economic Outlook - The report highlights the importance of upcoming economic data and decisions from G4 central banks, with expectations of a 25 basis point rate cut by the ECB and stable unemployment rates in the US [1][2]. Market Performance - The S&P 500's performance in May 2025 was notably strong, while EM equities have shown positive macro surprises, contrasting with muted US macro surprises [2][9]. Asset Allocation - The report suggests a diversified approach, advocating for international diversification in equities and bonds, and highlights the potential benefits of EM equity and local rates [3][6][21]. Correlation Analysis - The correlation between MSCI EM and the US Dollar has turned more positive, indicating a decoupling of EM rates from US rates, which may provide investment opportunities [16][18].

Core Insights - Philip Morris International (PM) has shown significant growth, with shares increasing over 100% since the second quarter of 2024, driven by new nicotine brands replacing traditional cigarettes [1] - The company is well-positioned for dividend growth over the next decade, supported by strong cash flow from its legacy cigarette business and expanding smoke-free product lines [2][8] Group 1: Company Overview - Philip Morris International operates as a leading tobacco company focused on international markets, distinct from Altria Group, which sells domestically [3] - The company benefits from international diversification, with revenue primarily generated outside the U.S., providing a hedge against dollar devaluation [4] Group 2: Product Innovation and Revenue Growth - Major investments in non-cigarette products have led to substantial growth, particularly with the nicotine pouch brand Zyn, which has grown to over 200 million cans sold per quarter in the U.S. [5] - The Iqos heat-not-burn device is a market leader in Europe and Japan, contributing significantly to revenue, with 42% of total revenue now coming from smoke-free products, totaling $38.4 billion over the last 12 months [6] Group 3: Dividend Strategy - Philip Morris pays a dividend of $5.35 per share, supported by free cash flow of $6.55 per share, despite current cash flow being impacted by investments in growth [10] - The company anticipates a rise in free cash flow per share to $10 or higher over the next five years, allowing for a projected 10% annual dividend growth, potentially increasing the payout to $8.61 [11] Group 4: Investment Potential - Despite a 100% increase in stock price over the past year, Philip Morris International remains an attractive investment, with a forward P/E ratio of 24, indicating it is not overly expensive for a consistent earnings grower [13][14] - The company holds a dominant position in the growing nicotine market without tobacco, positioning it favorably against competitors [14][15]