North American Smaller Companies out in front

As the top-performing sector of the past year, North American Smaller Companies bested even technology, despite swings in market sentiment

The only way was up for North American Smaller Companies funds in 2010 and it is still the best-performing IMA sector year to date. According to Morningstar, the sector made a return of 34.4% in the year to 4 February, beating even UK Smaller Companies on 32.8% and Technology on 30.1%. A combination of very low valuations and signs of economic recovery helped every fund produce a respectable return. However, swings in market sentiment impacted those funds whose managers were operating an apposite style to the feeling of the moment. The top fund over five years and three years in...