AMF Aktiefond Småbolag delivered a return of -8.7 percent during the first quarter of the year, while the fund's benchmark index, CSRXSE, returned -7.6 percent.

The performance of small-cap stocks on the Stockholm Stock Exchange got off to a weak start this year due to heightened global uncertainty surrounding unrest in Iran and the Middle East, as well as elevated energy prices. This, in turn, fueled market concerns over a new wave of inflation and further disruptions to corporate supply chains.

In terms of share price performance, Swedish small caps lagged behind large caps as the market opted to favor asset classes with higher liquidity, and profit growth among small caps has yet to accelerate significantly across the board.

However, the outlook remains positive in certain areas. Swedish industrial production and GDP are expected to grow in the coming years, which, according to the manager, typically signals an approaching economic recovery. Such a development could benefit the fund's holdings in the long term.

"We continue to see a strong expected profit growth for Swedish small caps over the coming years, and valuation multiples are generally at attractive levels, slightly lower than in the previous quarter. This gives us continued confidence that we are approaching a period where sentiment for small caps will improve, creating opportunities for new investments or increased positions in existing holdings," writes manager Sophie Larsén.

During the quarter, the fund's relative performance was negatively impacted by holdings in Troax and Addnode, as well as the lack of exposure to Securitas. Conversely, holdings in Nordnet and Instalco, among others, contributed positively to relative returns, as did the absence of shares in NOBA Bank.

The fund added no new holdings during the quarter but made adjustments by selling shares in companies where the outlook has deteriorated, instead purchasing shares where the managers see better potential for value growth.

During the quarter, the fund increased its exposure to Apotea and Sectra, as the managers believe the share price declines do not reflect the companies' future profit growth prospects. The holdings in Truecaller and Kjell Group were completely divested.

The fund's largest overweight positions at the end of the quarter were Nordnet, Medicover, and Sweco. By sector, the largest overweights were industrials, healthcare, and IT. The largest sector underweights were materials, consumer discretionary, and financials.