The Touchstone Small Cap Value Fund has once again demonstrated its investment prowess by outperforming its benchmark, the Russell 2000® Value Index, during the first quarter of 2026. This achievement highlights the fund's consistent application of a fundamental, value-oriented investment strategy, which involves a deep dive into company financials and market positioning. By identifying securities trading below their intrinsic worth and scrutinizing management effectiveness and competitive landscapes, the fund aims to deliver superior returns for its investors.

The investment process employed by the Touchstone Small Cap Value Fund is rooted in a time-tested value philosophy. This involves a meticulous fundamental analysis to pinpoint companies that are believed to be undervalued by the market. The fund utilizes a set of five distinct valuation screens, designed to sift through a vast universe of securities and identify those that present the most attractive pricing opportunities. This systematic approach ensures that investment decisions are based on solid financial metrics and a clear understanding of a company's true economic value.

Beyond quantitative screens, the fund's managers conduct exhaustive research on selected securities. This in-depth analysis goes beyond mere numbers, extending to a comprehensive evaluation of the company's management team, its strategic approach to competition, and its current standing within the industry. By understanding these qualitative aspects, the fund seeks to invest in robust companies that possess sustainable competitive advantages and are poised for long-term growth, even when their current market valuation suggests otherwise.

During the first quarter of 2026, the market conditions also played a favorable role, with lower volatility stocks showing stronger performance compared to their higher volatility counterparts. This trend, where low-volatility quintiles within the benchmark outperformed, aligned well with the fund's investment bias towards stable, fundamentally sound companies. Although the smallest and largest market capitalizations did not perform as strongly, the fund's focused strategy on value within the small-cap segment allowed it to capitalize on prevailing market dynamics and achieve its commendable outperformance.

The strong performance of the Touchstone Small Cap Value Fund in Q1 2026 underscores the effectiveness of its disciplined, value-driven investment approach. By combining rigorous valuation screens with thorough qualitative analysis, the fund consistently seeks to uncover leading companies trading at attractive prices, ultimately aiming to provide significant value for its shareholders.