In this #FundManagerChat podcast, John Weavers, Manager of the M&G North American Dividend Fund outlines the case for U.S. dividends.
John reveals the philosophy and process of underpinning his fund and explains how "Dividend Achievers" have been able to produce superior returns to the S&P 500.
John also considers the types of opportunities he is finding in a market that is dominated by the noise of the China/ US trade war. He explains why he currently likes the U.S. healthcare sector and the payments industry. He also shares his views on the state of U.S. corporate balance sheets and the broader outlook for the U.S. equity market.
Running Order Run Time Topic 00:20 Outline the objective and philosophy of the M&G North American Dividend Fund 02:00 How have "Dividend Achievers" performed against the S&P 500 and why? 04:21 Explain your benchmark. Why not use a high-yield benchmark? How are valuations currently? 06:37 Where are you currently finding opportunities in your market? 08:40 How are you finding your way through the noise of the US/ China Trade war? 11:10 How are US corporate balance sheets? What's the outlook for US Dividend growth? 13:10 What is currently exciting you about the US equity dividend market? 15:20 What is your outlook for US equities more generally? Do you have any concerns?
John Weavers is chatting with Jake Moeller, Head of Lipper UK and Ireland Research at Refinitiv, in London on August 14, 2019.
John is the manager of the M&G North American Dividend Fund since April 2015. In January 2016, he was appointed deputy fund manager of the M&G Global Dividend Fund before being joined by Alex Araujo as co deputy fund manager in April 2016.
John is also the deputy manager of the M&G Global Listed Infrastructure Fund and the M&G (Lux) Global Listed Infrastructure Fund since their launch in October 2017.
He joined M&G as a graduate in 2007 and worked as an analyst in the Equity Research team before joining the Income team in January 2012.
John graduated from Oxford University with an honours degree in politics, philosophy and economics and is a CFA charterholder.
Lipper delivers data on more than 265,000 collective investments in 61 countries. Find out more.
Disclaimer:
This material is provided for as market commentary and for educational purposes only and does not constitute investment research or advice. Refinitiv cannot be held responsible for any direct or incidental loss resulting from applying any of the information provided in this publication or from any other source mentioned. Please consult with a qualified professional for financial advice. The author does not own shares in this investment.
