Our Senior Portfolio Manager of Paragon SAGE Fund Sean Quek discusses the broadening the tech rally in Q1 this year, the impact of rate cuts on risk assets such as equities and why he still sees attractive investment opportunities despite toppish markets.

Unlike typical independent asset managers (IAM) that heavily rely on retrocessions, Paragon Capital Management has found success with its discretionary-based business, a model that may not be suitable for every private banker. That strategy is also helping it to deliver strong returns for clients. The firm’s flagship Paragon Alpha I fund gained 45.62% for 2023, beating top-performing asset classes.

In a year marked by challenges and volatility, PAF I has not only navigated but excelled. The fund recorded an annualised return of 11.17%, placing it 17th out of 306 funds in its category according to Eurekahedge.

As 2024 unfolds, we are excited to share our market outlook, building on a phenomenal 2023 where we saw a 35% increase in Assets Under Management (AUM).
In our view, the major reset in U.S. monetary policy over the past two years has created a more conducive backdrop for global equities. While short term volatility remains a constant, even for quality stocks, we see these fluctuations not challenges but as opportunities to create value for our investors over the longer term.