Investor Summary
Fund Strategy
FUND PERFORMANCE AS OF 31st December 2024
| ANNUALIZED SINCE INCEPTION | QUARTERLY | YTD |
|---|---|---|
| - | - | - |
| 2024 |
|---|
| -4.8% |
| ANNUALIZED SINCE INCEPTION | QUARTERLY | YTD |
|---|---|---|
| - | - | - |
| 2024 |
|---|
| -4.8% |
Citadel Value Fund delivered a -4.8% return in 2024, bringing total returns since inception to 183.4%. The fund maintains a disciplined value investing approach, purchasing investments at attractive valuations with the current portfolio trading at a 44% discount to estimated intrinsic value. During 2024, the fund added three new positions - Jost Werke, Kering, and Brunswick Corporation - while reducing cash from 23% to 11% to capitalize on market volatility. Strong performers included MPAC Group (+128%), SOL Group (+35%), and Village Super Market (+34%), while technology holdings Samsung Electronics and Sumco faced headwinds from semiconductor market softness. The fund exited Stellantis after operational challenges emerged during the company's product transition. With a look-through free cash flow yield of 6% and EV/EBITA multiple of 8x, the portfolio offers attractive valuations compared to broader market indices. The fund positions itself as a hedge against speculation-driven markets, maintaining focus on intrinsic value and margin of safety principles.
Citadel follows a value-based investment strategy founded on the principle that valuation at purchase plays a critical role in reducing risk and achieving future returns, contrasting with index investing that involves concentrated exposure to historically high-valued assets.
The fund remains confident that Citadel offers a hedge against the irrational exuberance of speculation-driven markets, maintaining a disciplined, common-sense investment approach focused on valuation and risk analysis.
| Date | Letter | Tickers | Keywords | Pitches | Quick Takes |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Jan 28 2025 | 2024 Q4 | 005930.KS, 3436.T, 6201.T, AAPL, AD.AS, AEO, BC, CON.DE, JST.DE, KER.PA, NOV, NVDA, PHIA.AS, STLA, TGS.OL, UHR.SW, VLGEA | Automotive, Industrial, Luxury, semiconductors, small caps, technology, value |
JOST.DE KER.PA BC STLA |
Citadel Value Fund returned -4.8% in 2024 but maintains a disciplined value approach with the portfolio trading at 44% discount to intrinsic value. The fund deployed cash opportunistically, adding Jost Werke, Kering, and Brunswick Corporation while exiting Stellantis. Strong performance from MPAC Group and SOL Group was offset by semiconductor weakness in Samsung and Sumco holdings. |
| Jul 1 2024 | 2024 Q2 | 005930.KS, 3436.T, 6222.T, 7248.T, AD, AEO, CON.DE, NOV, STLA, UHR.SW | Autos, Cash Generation, global, semiconductors, small cap, value |
3436.T STLA |
Citadel Value Fund delivered 18.4% returns through disciplined value investing, maintaining a concentrated portfolio of 18 cash-generative businesses trading at 33% discount to intrinsic value. Key positions include semiconductor leader Sumco and automaker Stellantis, both acquired at exceptional valuations. The fund holds 23% cash for opportunistic deployment while market anomalies create attractive entry points for quality companies. |
| Dec 21 2023 | 2023 Q4 | 005930.KS, 6201.T, 7932.T, AD.AS, AEO, BKNG, CON.DE, DEW.L, LIGHT.AS, MPAC.L, NOV, SOL.MI, STLA, TGS.OL, UHR.SW, VLGEA, VTSCY, ZWACK.BD | Automotive, Europe, semiconductors, small caps, technology, value | 005930.KS | Citadel Value Fund achieved 12% YTD returns through disciplined value investing, with Vitesco Technologies driving performance via 113% gain from takeover. Portfolio of 18 companies trades at 36% discount to intrinsic value. Strong cash position of 22% provides opportunity for deployment amid continued market volatility. Focus remains on fundamental analysis and margin of safety. |
| Jul 6 2023 | 2023 Q2 | 005930.KS, 6208.T, 7248.T, AD.AS, AEO, BKNG, CON.DE, LIGHT.AS, NOV, SOL.MI, STLA, UHR.SW, VLGEA, VTSC.DE | Automotive, Europe, Fundamental Analysis, Industrial, small caps, value |
SOL.MI VTSC.DE APA|C|FFIV|KHC|NOV|UNH LIGHT.AS STLA |
Citadel Value Fund delivered steady +0.6% returns through disciplined value investing, maintaining focus on fundamental analysis and margin-of-safety. Portfolio trades at 44% discount to intrinsic value with strong cash position for opportunities. SOL Group and Vitesco led performance while strategic Stellantis addition at 1x operating profit exemplifies attractive valuations available. |
| Dec 22 2022 | 2022 Q4 | AEO, BEZ GR, LIGHT NA, MPAC LN, VTSC GR | Automotive, Electrification, energy, Intrinsic Value, valuation | - | |
| Jun 23 2022 | 2022 Q2 | AEO, BBBY, LIGHT NA, VTSC GR, ZWC1 GR | energy, inflation, Intrinsic Value, valuation, volatility |
AEO STLA 005930 KS 3436 JP BCO |
| QUARTER | THEMES | TAGS |
|---|---|---|
| 2024 Q4 |
ValueThe fund emphasizes value investing principles, purchasing solid investments at low entry valuations as a time-tested approach since 2002. The portfolio trades at a 44% discount to estimated intrinsic value with a look-through free cash flow yield of 6% and EV/EBITA multiple of 8x, contrasting with the MSCI World index at 18x operational profit. |
Valuation Discount Margin of Safety Free Cash Flow Intrinsic Value |
Semiconductor CycleMainstream semiconductor markets were subdued in 2024, particularly in the second half, affecting holdings like Samsung Electronics and Sumco Corporation. While there was high demand for high-end wafers used in AI processors, it was insufficient to offset the overall market slowdown, with expectations for market normalization in 2025. |
Memory Chips Silicon Wafers AI Processors Market Slowdown Normalization | |
AutosThe fund exited its Stellantis position after the company lost market share in North America during product platform transitions and faced challenges with dealerships. Management prioritized short-term profitability during extensive product transitions, leading to operational issues that proved more significant than anticipated. |
Electric Vehicles Product Transition Market Share Dealership Network Management Quality | |
LuxuryAdded Kering to the portfolio, one of the world's leading luxury houses operating iconic brands including Gucci, Yves Saint Laurent, and Bottega Veneta. Despite historical success, Gucci is undergoing strategic repositioning under new management during a challenging period for global luxury markets, with 2024 profitability under significant pressure. |
Gucci Strategic Repositioning Global Luxury Markets Brand Portfolio Profitability Pressure | |
| 2024 Q2 |
ValueCitadel focuses on businesses that are highly cash generative relative to their purchase price, buying them at a discount to intrinsic value. The portfolio trades at a 33% discount to estimated intrinsic value with a 7% free cash flow yield. This approach has delivered solid returns and remains robust despite market anomalies. |
Cash Generation Intrinsic Value Discount Free Cash Flow Margin of Safety |
AutosThe auto industry faces a prolonged shift from internal combustion engines to electric vehicles, presenting significant challenges. Stellantis has implemented a future-proof strategy with four main vehicle platforms that can accommodate any powertrain, allowing flexibility to adjust production based on market demand and regulations. |
Electric Vehicles Platform Strategy Powertrain Flexibility Market Transition | |
SemiconductorsSumco Corp was added as a leading producer of semiconductor wafers with 25% global market share and 50% for high-end wafers crucial for AI processors and memory chips. The company has strong demand with 5-year purchase agreements including annual price increases and trades at a 14% normalized free cash flow yield. |
Semiconductor Wafers AI Processors Market Share Long-term Contracts | |
| 2023 Q4 |
ValueFund emphasizes fundamental value investing approach with focus on margin of safety and intrinsic value estimation. Portfolio trading at 36% discount to estimated intrinsic value with 7% free cash flow yield. Manager discusses risk as permanent capital loss rather than volatility. |
Margin of safety Intrinsic value Free cash flow Undervalued Discount |
AutosSignificant exposure to automotive sector through Vitesco Technologies, Stellantis, Toyota Industries, and Nichirin. Vitesco became largest holding with 113% return following Schaeffler takeover bid. Stellantis added as attractively valued despite being efficiently operated carmaker. |
Electric vehicles Automotive components Electrification Auto parts | |
SemiconductorsSamsung Electronics position increased during cyclical downturn in memory chip market. Company holds global leadership in memory chips and benefits from AI demand through high bandwidth memory chips launching 2024. Attractive valuation at 4x operating earnings. |
Memory chips AI Cyclical Technology | |
| 2023 Q2 |
ValueFund focuses on fundamental company analysis to estimate intrinsic value and achieve margin-of-safety by paying much less than intrinsic value. Portfolio trading at 44% discount to estimated intrinsic value with weighted free cash flow yield of 8%. |
Fundamental Analysis Intrinsic Value Margin of Safety Free Cash Flow Discount |
AutosStellantis position represents 3rd largest carmaker globally with strong integration synergies potential and ultra-low valuation at 1x operating profit. Automotive components exposure through Vitesco Technologies, Nichirin, Toyota Industries, and Continental. |
Electric Vehicles Auto Parts Integration Synergies Manufacturing | |
Industrial GoodsLargest sector exposure including SOL Group in medical gases, Signify in lighting, NOV in oil & gas equipment, and various automotive component suppliers. Focus on companies with strong market positions and cash generation. |
Medical Gases Lighting Oil Equipment Manufacturing Market Leadership |
| Date | Pitch Type | Author | Ticker | Company | Industry | Sub Industry | Bull / Bear | Exchange | Keywords | Action |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Jan 28, 2025 | Fund Letters | Bas Schreuders | BCO | Brunswick Corporation | Industrials | Recreational Marine & Engines | Bull | NYSE | aftermarket, Cyclical, Engines, Marine, recovery | Login |
| Jan 28, 2025 | Fund Letters | Citadel Value Fund | STLA | Stellantis | Consumer Discretionary | Automobiles | Bear | NYSE | automotive, Dealer Relations, Electric Vehicles, exit, Management Risk, Market Share Loss, Operational Issues, Product Transition | Login |
| Jan 28, 2025 | Fund Letters | Citadel Value Fund | JOST.DE | Jost Werke | Capital Goods | Industrial Machinery | Bull | XETRA | acquisition, commercial vehicles, German Manufacturing, Industrial Components, market leader, Tractor Equipment, Truck Parts, Value | Login |
| Jan 28, 2025 | Fund Letters | Citadel Value Fund | KER.PA | Kering | Consumer Discretionary | Textiles, Apparel & Luxury Goods | Bull | Euronext Paris | brand portfolio, European, fashion, Gucci, High returns, Luxury goods, retail, turnaround, Value | Login |
| Jan 28, 2025 | Fund Letters | Citadel Value Fund | BC | Brunswick Corporation | Consumer Discretionary | Leisure Products | Bull | NYSE | aftermarket, Cyclical, Marine Products, Mercury Engines, Recovery Play, Recreational Boating, US market, Value | Login |
| Jul 1, 2024 | Fund Letters | Bas Schreuders | 3436 JP | Sumco Corporation | Information Technology | Semiconductor Equipment | Bull | NYSE | AI, Contracts, Pricing power, semiconductors, Wafers | Login |
| May 31, 2024 | Fund Letters | Citadel Value Fund | STLA | Stellantis | Consumer Discretionary | Automobiles | Bull | NYSE | automotive, cash generation, dividend, Electric Vehicles, flexibility, Multi-brand, platform consolidation, Share Buybacks | Login |
| May 31, 2024 | Fund Letters | Citadel Value Fund | 3436.T | Sumco Corp | Information Technology | Semiconductors & Semiconductor Equipment | Bull | Tokyo Stock Exchange | AI, Contracts, Japan, market leader, patents, semiconductors, technology, Wafers | Login |
| Dec 21, 2023 | Fund Letters | Bas Schreuders | 005930 KS | Samsung Electronics Co., Ltd. | Information Technology | Semiconductors & Consumer Electronics | Bull | NYSE | AI, Cyclicality, Korea, Memory, semiconductors, valuation | Login |
| Jul 6, 2023 | Fund Letters | Bas Schreuders | STLA | Stellantis N.V. | Consumer Discretionary | Automobiles | Bull | Euronext Stock Exchange | Autos, cash, EVs, synergies, valuation | Login |
| Nov 30, 2023 | Fund Letters | Citadel Value Fund | 005930.KS | Samsung Electronics | Information Technology | Technology Hardware, Storage & Peripherals | Bull | Korea Exchange | AI, Cyclical, Display Technology, memory chips, semiconductors, Smartphones, South Korea, technology hardware | Login |
| Nov 30, 2023 | Fund Letters | Citadel Value Fund | - | Vitesco Technologies | Consumer Discretionary | Automotive Parts & Equipment | Bull | Euronext Paris | automotive, battery technology, Electrification, electronics, EV Components, spin-off, takeover, Value | Login |
| Jul 6, 2023 | Fund Letters | Citadel Value Fund | LIGHT.AS | Signify NV | Industrials | Electrical Components & Equipment | Bull | Euronext Amsterdam | dividend yield, Europe, Free Cash Flow, LED, Lighting Technology, Netherlands, Smart Lighting, Value | Login |
| Jul 6, 2023 | Fund Letters | Citadel Value Fund | STLA | Stellantis NV | Consumer Discretionary | Automobile Manufacturers | Bull | NYSE | Automotive Manufacturing, Cost synergies, dividend yield, Electric Vehicles, Europe, platform integration, Share Buybacks, Value | Login |
| Jul 6, 2023 | Fund Letters | Citadel Value Fund | - | Nichirin Co Ltd | Consumer Discretionary | Automotive Parts & Equipment | Bull | Tokyo Stock Exchange | Asia, Automotive Components, Brake Systems, Japan, Motorcycle Parts, niche market, Rubber Hoses, small-cap, Value | Login |
| Jul 6, 2023 | Fund Letters | Citadel Value Fund | SOL.MI | SOL Group | Materials | Industrial Gases | Bull | Borsa Italiana | Europe, Healthcare services, home care, Industrial Gases, Italy, Medical Gases, Respiratory Services, Value | Login |
| Jul 6, 2023 | Fund Letters | Citadel Value Fund | VTSC.DE | Vitesco Technologies | Consumer Discretionary | Automotive Parts & Equipment | Bull | XETRA | automotive technology, battery technology, economies of scale, Electric Vehicles, Electrification, Germany, growth, powertrain | Login |
| Jul 6, 2023 | Fund Letters | Citadel Value Fund | APA|C|FFIV|KHC|NOV|UNH | NOV Inc | Energy | Oil & Gas Equipment & Services | Bull | NYSE | Cyclical Recovery, energy infrastructure, Energy Services, Exploration, Offshore Wind, Oil & Gas Equipment, Production, Value | Login |
| Jun 23, 2022 | Fund Letters | Bas Schreuders | AEO | American Eagle Outfitters Inc. | Consumer Discretionary | Specialty Stores | Bull | NYSE | Apparel, Cyclicals, Margins, retail, valuation | Login |
| TICKER | COMMENTARY |
|---|---|
| NVDA | NVIDIA has emerged as the most prominent member and, as of the end of 2024, the most valuable company in the world. With a market cap of approximately $3,500 billion, its value is roughly equal to the total size of the United Kingdom's economy. |
| AAPL | NVIDIA and Apple combined account for about 10% of the MSCI World index (consisting of the world's 1,400 largest companies). |
| 005930.KS | Samsung faced delays in launching AI-processor related memory products, and its performance headwind was compounded by weak demand from PC and smartphone markets. |
| KER.PA | Kering, one of the world's leading luxury houses. While best known for operating the iconic Gucci brand, Kering also owns other prestigious names, including Yves Saint Laurent, Bottega Veneta, Balenciaga and several others. Despite its historical success, Gucci is currently undergoing a strategic repositioning under new management and a new creative director, during a challenging period for global luxury markets. |
| JST.DE | Based in Germany, Jost is a global market leader in components for truck and tractor manufacturers. In 2024, Jost announced its acquisition of Hyva, a Netherlands-based global market leader for hydraulic tipping systems in the same sectors. With its strong market positions, consistent financial performance, solid balance sheet, and experienced management team, Jost aligns well with the Fund's selection criteria. |
| BC | Brunswick is a global leader in recreational marine products, including boat outboard engines (with the frequently seen Mercury outboard engine), parts and accessories, marine navigation and other boat-related technologies, as well as the manufacturing of entire boats. The engine and parts business segments, which combined generate approx. 80% of group operating profit, deliver through-the-cycle operating margins of up to 20%. |
| 3436.T | Sumco was affected by the broader softness in semiconductor demand. While there was high demand for Sumco's high-end wafers used in AI processors, it was insufficient to offset the overall market slowdown. |
| STLA | The Fund initiated a position in this major carmaker in early 2023. While the investment in Stellantis delivered a +40% return in 2023, the Fund had to digest a -37% return in 2024. Citadel exited the position in the third quarter of 2024, resulting in a small negative total return since purchase. |
| Ticker | Put/Call | Amount Bought | Shares Bought | % Change | Weight % |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| No Recent Buys Data | |||||
| Ticker | Put/Call | Amount Sold | Shares Sold | % Change | Weight % | Status |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| No Recent Sells Data | ||||||
| Industry | Prev Quarter % | Current Quarter % | Change |
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| No industry data available | |||