Financial Data and Key Metrics Changes - The profit for the year decreased to CHF 7.9 million from CHF 10.7 million, attributed to a decline in dividend income and option income [7] - The management expense ratio improved slightly to 0.54% from 0.56%, indicating good value for an investment vehicle in this sector [8] - The ordinary dividend was maintained at €0.65, with a portfolio return of 11.4%, underperforming the benchmark return of 15.2% [9][11] Business Line Data and Key Metrics Changes - The portfolio's performance was driven by significant contributors such as Temple and Webster, which increased by 127%, and other companies like Hub24 and Life360 [25] - The underperformance was partly due to the absence of strong representation in high-performing sectors like gold [14] - The company sold down positions in high-performing stocks to manage volatility and maintain dividend capacity [27] Market Data and Key Metrics Changes - The company noted a strong recovery in the market after a significant drop earlier in the year, with a return to near peak levels by June [61] - Approximately 35% of revenue from the top 20 stocks comes from offshore sources, indicating a balanced exposure to global markets [72] Company Strategy and Development Direction - The company aims to provide long-term investment returns through holdings and attractive fully franked dividends, focusing on small and mid-sized companies [5][6] - A one-for-seven rights issue was executed to raise capital, allowing for portfolio rebalancing and lower management expense ratios [16][21] - The company plans to take a patient approach to deploying capital, focusing on long-term value rather than short-term market fluctuations [63] Management's Comments on Operating Environment and Future Outlook - Management expressed confidence in the long-term investment approach despite short-term volatility, emphasizing the importance of patience in capital deployment [63] - The company remains cautious about the current market environment, noting that high growth companies are well-rated, which may limit capital deployment opportunities [69][70] Other Important Information - The company has a history of paying out more in dividends than it receives from share purchase plans, indicating strong shareholder demand for investment opportunities [17] - The capital raising was well-received, with a take-up rate of 119%, leading to a fair outcome for shareholders [21][23] Q&A Session Summary Question: Where is the Australian market developing in a bull market? - The company noted that earnings and valuations drive share prices, but current economic growth is not strong enough to support significant re-ratings in valuations [67][68] Question: What percentage of portfolio revenue comes from global sources? - Approximately 35% of revenue from the top 20 stocks comes from offshore, with a mix of domestic and international businesses [72][73] Question: Why does the company still hold IDP? - The company believes IDP remains the market leader in its space despite current pressures, and it is important to weather the downturn [76][78] Question: What is the view on Macquarie Technology Group's development approval? - There are concerns about development approvals due to local council issues, but the company has faith in management's long-term decisions [80][82] Question: Why was Sigma Healthcare exited from the portfolio? - The exit was due to a rapid increase in value post-merger, making it difficult to justify maintaining a position given its size and valuation [84] Question: Thoughts on Gentrack's transition? - Gentrack has evolved into a robust business, but it may need time to consolidate its growth after a rapid increase in size [90] Question: Will IPD Group pursue further acquisitions? - The company expects IPD Group to continue acquiring businesses, but these will likely be smaller and not thesis-changing [93]