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25 February 2026
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Trump’s moves on tariffs, defence, and Ukraine, have awoken European Governments after a decade of lethargy. European small cap manager, Alantra Asset Management, says it could herald a new era for the continent.
Political turmoil and new regulations have left Europe-listed small caps unloved and under-covered. Taking a 'friendly activist' approach to investing in those with global growth opportunities can reap dividends.
We do not agree with Treasury’s suggestion that institutional investors are overly influenced by the research provided by proxy advisors. Here's how active ownership works to serve the client's best interests.
A fund that is 'passive' does not mean its managers merely invest as directed by the index with little concern for ESG risks. Good stewardship is valued as much by 'indirect' investors as direct shareholders.
Try having a direct conversation with a board member without going through the company's PR team. Boards can become managed and co-opted by company executives and forget who they work for.
With historic falls in greenhouse gas emissions during the COVID-19 pandemic, we have a unique opportunity to construct a recovery that ensures a stronger economy while minimising carbon emissions.
Individuals may feel disempowered when their small number of shares are outweighed by large institutions, but combining retail power into a voting block can lead to meaningful engagement.
The days of company boards making decisions in isolation from their shareholders have long gone, and investor expectations are rising across many cultural and social issues.
Hostile takeover battles can produce heated disputes between company directors, managers and shareholders. What’s in the company’s long term interests and who decides? Does shareholder activism aid or hinder?
A fundamental tenet of free market capitalism is that owners choose how their assets are used to their best advantage. Does this apply to shareholders? And do super fund members get to exercise such choice?
A dedicated shareholder activist is an investor who actively seeks out companies with the intention of engaging directly with the board and management to address flawed strategies.
The renowned investor says 2025’s real story wasn’t AI or US stocks but the shift away from American assets and a collapse in the value of money. And he outlines how to best position portfolios for what’s ahead.
The post-World War Two economic system is unravelling, leading to huge shifts in currency, bond and commodity markets, yet stocks seem oblivious to the chaos. This looks to history as a guide for what’s next.
Our cost-of-living pressures go beyond the RBA: surging house prices, excessive migration, and expanding government programs, including the NDIS, are fuelling inflation, demanding bold, structural solutions.
The capital gains tax discount is under review, but debate should go beyond its size. Its original purpose, design flaws and distortions suggest Australia could adopt a better, more targeted approach.
This is my last edition as Editor of Firstlinks. I’m moving onto a new role though the newsletter will remain in good hands until my permanent replacement is found.
There’s one surprising area of the market that’s been left behind over the past year: quality stocks. Not only in Australia, but globally. The likes of REA, CAR Group, and Aristocrat may offer opportunities in an overpriced market.