In the final quarter of 2025, the Harbor Mid Cap Fund (Institutional Class) delivered an impressive return of 4.00%. This figure notably surpassed the performance of its benchmark, the Russell Midcap® Index, which recorded a modest 0.16% return during the same period. This significant outperformance underscores the fund's effective investment strategies and successful portfolio management.
Several individual stocks played a crucial role in the fund's strong performance. Among the top contributors were Murphy Oil Corporation, a company recognized for its robust operational efficiency; Ulta Beauty, a leading retailer in the beauty sector; and Raymond James, a diversified financial services firm. Their positive contributions highlight successful stock-picking within the mid-cap segment.
During the quarter, the fund made deliberate adjustments to its portfolio to optimize its market position. New investments included EMCOR Group, a prominent electrical and mechanical construction company; Vertiv Holdings, a provider of critical digital infrastructure; and Twilio, a cloud communications platform. Conversely, the fund divested its position in Air Lease, reflecting a proactive approach to reallocating capital and managing exposure. These strategic moves are indicative of ongoing active management aimed at enhancing future returns.