The image above shows a grid of horizontal, vertical and diagonal lines with 12 black dots at various intersections. Most people are only able to see one or two of the black dots at any one time. Named Ninio’s Extinction Illusion after Jacques Ninio, the French scientist who first published it in 2000 – it speaks to the weakness of peripheral vision in humans, but also to the brain’s tendency to fabricate patterns when confronted with uncertainty.
In our view, this optical illusion serves to illustrate another point. It demonstrates a wider truth in investing: that the more expansive a portfolio is, the harder it is to maintain oversight of all the underlying holdings. Far better, we believe, to define your universe, allocate capital with conviction and zone in on what’s important to you as an investor.
Any reference to a specific security, country or sector should not be construed as a recommendation to buy or sell securities in those countries or sectors. Please note that holdings and positioning are subject to change without notice.
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This is a financial promotion. Issued by Newton Investment Management Limited, The Bank of New York Mellon Centre, 160 Queen Victoria Street, London, EC4V 4LA. Registered in England No. 01371973. Newton Investment Management is authorised and regulated by the Financial Conduct Authority, 12 Endeavour Square, London, E20 1JN and is a subsidiary of The Bank of New York Mellon Corporation. Material in this publication is for general information only. The opinions expressed in this document are those of Newton and should not be construed as investment advice or recommendations for any purchase or sale of any specific security or commodity. Certain information contained herein is based on outside sources believed to be reliable, but its accuracy is not guaranteed. You should consult your advisor to determine whether any particular investment strategy is appropriate. This material is for institutional investors only. Past performance is not a guide to future performance. Your capital may be at risk. The value of investments and the income from them can fall as well as rise and investors may not get back the original amount invested.
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