In the final quarter of 2025, the Aristotle Growth Equity Fund's performance was detailed in its investor correspondence. The fund posted a return of 0.95%, falling short of the Russell 1000 Growth Index's 1.12%. This period saw U.S. equity markets reaching unprecedented highs, with the S&P 500 Index climbing 2.66% and the Bloomberg U.S. Aggregate Bond Index increasing by 1.10%. Sector-wise, healthcare, communication services, and financials led the gains within the Russell 1000 Growth Index, while utilities, real estate, and materials experienced declines. Despite the U.S. economy's resilience, a dip in consumer confidence towards the end of the year raised questions about future consumer spending and the employment landscape.

A significant strategic move for the fund involved the offloading of its stake in Linde plc (NASDAQ:LIN), a prominent chemical firm and industrial gas supplier. This divestiture was prompted by a sustained downturn in Linde's core business volumes, particularly in Europe, due to sluggish industrial activity. The fund also cited concerns over Linde's substantial exposure to North American industrial markets, which could pose increased risks if the U.S. economy experiences an extended period of contraction. Linde plc's stock closed at $508.27 per share on February 25, 2026, marking an 11.71% return over the previous month and a 10.43% gain over the past year, with a market capitalization of $238.33 billion.

This decision underscores a prudent investment approach, prioritizing risk management and adapting to evolving market conditions. By divesting from assets with perceived vulnerabilities, funds can better position themselves to navigate economic uncertainties and seek opportunities that align with long-term growth objectives, ensuring sustained value creation.