Q3 2025 Fund Commentary

Market commentary

The global economy was resilient in the third quarter despite trade uncertainty and geopolitical issues. U.S. tariffs weighed on sentiment, but monetary easing in key regions supported growth. Developed markets underperformed, while emerging markets, particularly in Asia, benefited from a weaker U.S. dollar.

Inflation moderated in most regions. Central banks in Canada and the U.K. cut interest rates, while the U.S. Federal Reserve Board lowered its policy rate to 4.00%–4.25%. Trade tensions continued to hamper investment and industrial activity, which government spending in Europe and China helped offset.

Global fixed income markets edged higher over the third quarter. Government bonds in developed markets benefited from moderating inflation and interest rate cuts, particularly in the U.S. The Bloomberg Global Aggregate Bond Index gained 0.6%, supported by strong demand for high-quality assets. Investment-grade corporate bonds outperformed government bonds in several regions.

High-yield bonds also gained, supported by improving risk sentiment and elevated coupon income. Credit spreads remained tight, reflecting low default rates and strong fundamentals.

Performance

The Fund’s relative exposure to Curaleaf Holdings Inc. (8.0%, 2026/12/15) contributed to performance. The bond benefited from improved sentiment in the cannabis sector, driven by regulatory momentum and stronger operating results.

At a sector level, overweight exposure to high-yield bonds contributed to the Fund’s performance. Security selection among industrials sector bonds detracted from performance.