As world economies develop over time, the financials sector performs vital functions. Advances in financial services, along with technology and shifting consumer habits, bring new potential for investors. The fund’s manager seeks opportunities in industries such as banking, insurance, real estate, credit cards, and brokerages.
Portfolio Manager
Fund weightings vs. MSCI World Financials Index (ND) (%) as of 12/31/11
| Putnam | MSCI | ||
|---|---|---|---|
| Overweight | Citigroup | 4.08 | 1.92 |
| State Street | 2.37 | 0.51 | |
| Australia New Zealand Banking Group | 3.23 | 1.38 | |
| Underweight | Royal Bank of Canada | 0.00 | 1.83 |
| Commonwealth Bank of Australia | 0.00 | 1.96 | |
| HSBC Holdings | 1.23 | 3.40 | |
Weightings reflect actual holdings, which will vary over time.
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| 1960s | 1970s | 1986 | 1998 | 2008 | 2010 |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Credit cards become popular with U.S. consumers | Banks introduce automated teller machines | United Kingdom deregulates financial markets | Citibank merges with Travelers Insurance | China lifts moratorium on foreign banks | European authorities commit nearly $1 trillion to address Europe’s sovereign debt crisis |