Core Insights - U.S. small-cap equities experienced modest gains in Q4 2025, supported by attractive valuations, earnings recovery, and a shift from mega-cap stocks [1] - The Aristotle Small Cap Equity Fund (Class I-2) returned 1.96% in Q4 2025, underperforming the Russell 2000 Index's 2.19% total return [1] - Security selection positively impacted overall performance, while allocation effects detracted from it [1] Company-Specific Insights - Itron, Inc. (NASDAQ:ITRI) was identified as a major performance detractor for the Aristotle Small Cap Equity Fund in Q4 2025, with a one-month return of -10.68% and a 12-month decline of 7.88% [2] - Itron, Inc. has a market capitalization of $4.093 billion and is involved in manufacturing and distributing electric, water, and gas meters [2][3] - The stock sold off due to slower-than-anticipated regulatory approvals, but the company is expected to benefit from power grid modernization efforts in 2026 [3] - Itron, Inc. is not among the 30 most popular stocks among hedge funds, with 37 hedge fund portfolios holding its shares at the end of Q3 2025, an increase from 35 in the previous quarter [4] - While Itron, Inc. has potential as an investment, certain AI stocks are considered to offer greater upside potential and less downside risk [4]

Core Insights - ePlus inc. has initiated its first quarterly dividend, set at $0.25 per common share, marking a significant shift in its capital return strategy to shareholders [2] - The decision to pay dividends reflects ePlus's commitment to enhancing shareholder value through disciplined capital allocation and confidence in its growth outlook [3] - ePlus plans to maintain its share repurchase program while also considering reinvestment in organic growth and selective mergers and acquisitions to strengthen the company long-term [4] Company Overview - ePlus has expanded its operations since going public in November 1996, utilizing acquisitions to enhance its geographic reach and technology capabilities [5] - The company operates through three subsidiaries organized into two main segments: the Financing Business Unit, which focuses on leasing and business process outsourcing, and the Technology Sales Business Unit, which encompasses IT sales and software services [6] - ePlus provides a range of technology solutions and services aimed at supporting digital transformation, including offerings in artificial intelligence, security, cloud and data center, networking, and collaboration [7]