Market Performance - The RAM Smid composite gained 3.58% in 4Q25, outperforming the Russell 2500 Value Total Return index which rose 3.15% [2] - Year to date, the RAM Smid composite gained 13.09% compared to 12.73% for the Russell 2500 Value Total Return index [2] - In 4Q25, both the Russell 2500 Value and Russell 2000 Value outperformed the S&P 500 and Nasdaq Composite, indicating a shift in investor focus towards small-cap stocks [3] Economic Outlook - The U.S. economy showed strength into year-end, recovering from a 0.6% GDP decline in 1Q25 to 3.8% and 4.3% in 3Q25 and 4Q25 respectively [6] - Consumer spending is expected to remain healthy in 2026, bolstered by various tax benefits and potential stimulus measures [7] - Inflation, as measured by core PCE, was 2.9% in 3Q25, and is anticipated to ease in the second half of 2026 as tariff impacts diminish [8] Federal Reserve and Interest Rates - Job growth has weakened, with non-farm payrolls down 105,000 in October and the unemployment rate rising to 4.6% [10] - If job growth remains weak, the Federal Reserve may need to cut rates further, especially if inflation driven by tariffs subsides [11] Small Cap Sector Insights - The small cap value sector is viewed as attractively valued and neglected by investors, presenting potential opportunities as large-cap stocks plateau [12] - A shift of just 1% from the S&P 500 into the Russell 2500 value index could require significant buying, indicating potential for a rapid rotation into small caps [13] Portfolio Highlights - The portfolio added three new positions in 4Q25 and maintained a focus on long-term compounding with modest turnover [14] - Mayville Engineering (MEC) was the top performer in 4Q25, rising 34.8%, while Lakeland Industries (LAKE) was the weakest performer, declining 45.31% [16][17] - Donnelley Financial Solutions (DFIN) is transitioning to a software-as-a-service model, with strong balance sheet metrics and significant free cash flow [19][20] Valuation and Future Projections - DFIN shares are considered attractively valued, trading at 10.5x 2026 EPS and 5.6x EBITDA estimates, significantly below peers [23] - A conservative price target of $66 for DFIN implies a 41.4% upside from year-end closing, with potential for further appreciation as the company stabilizes its revenue model [24] - The small and smid cap sector may benefit from moderate GDP growth, easing inflation, and potential Fed rate cuts in 2026 [26]