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The Janus Henderson Small Cap Value Fund concluded the first quarter of 2026 with a return of 3.31%, which trailed the Russell 2000® Value Index's gain of 4.96%. A primary factor contributing to this underperformance was the fund's strategic underweighting of the energy sector, coupled with specific stock selections within this industry. Conversely, astute stock picking within the industrials sector played a positive role in the fund's relative performance. The fund's managers are confident that their disciplined approach, emphasizing robust balance sheets and opportunities for earnings expansion, will prove advantageous in navigating an increasingly uncertain economic landscape.

Amidst ongoing global economic shifts and market volatility, the Janus Henderson Small Cap Value Fund is committed to its core investment philosophy, focusing on identifying resilient small-cap companies. The management team believes that businesses with strong financial foundations and clear pathways to earnings growth are best positioned to thrive, regardless of broader market fluctuations. This selective approach aims to mitigate risks associated with sector-specific headwinds and capitalize on unique opportunities within the small-cap universe, ensuring the fund's long-term stability and growth potential for its investors.

Q1 2026 Performance Overview

In the first quarter of 2026, the Janus Henderson Small Cap Value Fund recorded a return of 3.31%, which was below the 4.96% return of its benchmark, the Russell 2000® Value Index. This divergence in performance was largely attributed to the fund's strategic decision to maintain an underweight position in the energy sector, alongside the impact of specific stock choices within this sector. Despite these challenges, positive contributions from stock selection in the industrials sector helped offset some of the negative effects. The fund's investment strategy is anchored on identifying companies with robust balance sheets and solid prospects for earnings growth, a methodology expected to yield benefits in an environment characterized by heightened economic unpredictability.

The management team at Janus Henderson remains committed to its investment principles, prioritizing high-quality companies that demonstrate financial strength and sustainable growth potential. This quarter's results underscore the complexities of navigating dynamic market conditions, particularly with sector-specific exposures. However, the fund's focus on fundamental analysis and long-term value creation is designed to provide resilience and capitalize on opportunities that may arise in less certain economic climates. By adhering to this disciplined approach, the fund aims to deliver consistent returns and manage risk effectively for its investors, even when faced with short-term market headwinds.

Strategic Investment Focus and Market Outlook

The Janus Henderson Small Cap Value Fund's investment strategy is firmly rooted in a forward-looking perspective, emphasizing high-quality balance sheets and promising earnings growth trajectories. This approach is particularly critical given the prevailing market uncertainties, where economic conditions can shift rapidly. The fund managers believe that by concentrating on companies with sound financials and a clear path to profitability, they can better safeguard investor capital while positioning for substantial long-term gains. This selective methodology allows the fund to be agile and responsive to market dynamics, prioritizing stability and growth in an evolving investment landscape.

Looking ahead, the fund continues to refine its portfolio, seeking out undervalued small-cap enterprises that align with its stringent criteria for financial health and growth potential. The management team's conviction lies in the ability of these carefully chosen companies to outperform in varying market cycles. By maintaining a vigilant watch on economic indicators and company fundamentals, Janus Henderson aims to navigate potential market volatility effectively, leveraging its expertise to identify and invest in businesses that are well-equipped to generate value. This strategic clarity ensures a consistent and disciplined approach to investment, even amidst a fluid global economic environment.