The weakening yen and market rally in Japan benefitted Yamaha Motor (TSE:7951), another top performer in the Fund for fiscal year 2013. Yamaha is a world leader in producing motorcycles and recreational vehicles, and it also produces motor vehicle engines for Toyota Motor Corp. and Ford Motor Co. The company’s specialty products include motor boats, snowmobiles, golf carts and electric power generators. Yamaha sells its products globally, including in Japan, North America, Europe, Asia and South America. Yamaha’s first-quarter financial statements showed that its best results came from its marine segment, driven by all product areas: outboard motors, personal watercraft, boats and parts. The company’s core motorcycles unit produced the weakest performance. However, we believe positive trends are emerging, including a stabilizing Indonesian market, as evidenced by a growth in Yamaha’s Asian motorcycle sales and improved sales volumes month over month.
From David Herro's Oakmark International Small Cap Fund third quarter 2013 commentary.
From David Herro's Oakmark International Small Cap Fund third quarter 2013 commentary.
