International Portfolio
Part of the Azzad Ethical Wrap Program
A comprehensive halal wealth management solution for high net worth clients, organizations, and business owners.
Why International Investing?
International investing is a crucial part of portfolio returns, and those who avoid it do so at their own peril. In addition, much of global growth in the coming years is expected to come from outside the United States. But the performance of stock markets around the world can differ dramatically from one country to the next and from one year to the next.
Globalization has provided an expanded universe of investment opportunities, both in the number of “investable” markets abroad and the accessibility of quality, growing companies. U.S. investors who limit their investments to the domestic market are missing out on half of the world’s market capitalization. Moreover, U.S.-only investors are neglecting sectors and companies that may provide higher growth and returns than their counterparts in the U.S.
Investment Approach
A top-down global analysis combines with a bottom up security selection approach to construct a diversified portfolio.
A global analysis of prevailing economic market and political conditions drives investment themes as well as country and sector allocations. Fundamental analysis identifies quality companies with durable business models and sustainable competitive advantages.
Of course, stocks must also pass Azzad’s socially responsible investment criteria.
Meet the Managers
Michael is lead portfolio manager for the Azzad international portfolio. Prior to joining previous international model portfolio manager Scout Investments, he managed the European Equities Fund at Overseas Asset Management (OAM), an offshore investment firm based in Grand Cayman.
Michael’s experience includes assisting in the management of European equity portfolios for U.S. Trust Company of New York in New York and London. Before U.S. Trust, Michael worked as a research analyst for a domestic brokerage house in Slovakia. Michael also worked in the fixed income operations of Lehman Brothers. He earned his master’s degree from Columbia Business School in New York and his Bachelor of Commerce degree from University College Dublin.
Angel is co-portfolio manager for the Azzad international portfolio. Prior to joining previous international portfolio manager Scout Investments in 2007, he was a senior associate analyst for A.G. Edwards & Sons with previous experience as an analyst with Bear Stearns. He has 14 years of financial industry experience. He earned his M.B.A. in finance from the Olin School of Business at Washington University and his Bachelor of Science in business administration from Rockhurst.
