The use of derivatives is not intended to increase the overall level of risk. However, the use of derivatives may still lead to large changes in value and includes the potential for large financial loss. A counterparty to a derivative transaction may fail to meet its obligations which may also lead to a financial loss.
The value of equities (e.g. shares) and equity-related investments may vary according to company profits and future prospects as well as more general market factors. In the event of a company default (e.g. insolvency), the owners of their equity rank last in terms of any financial payment from that company.
Investments may be primarily concentrated in specific countries, geographical regions and/or industry sectors. This may result in wider fluctuations in the value of the portfolio compared to more broadly invested portfolios.
The use of a specific investment style or philosophy can result in particular portfolio characteristics that are different to more broadly-invested portfolios. These differences may mean that, in certain market conditions, the value of the portfolio may decrease while more broadly-invested portfolios might grow.