The Rise and Fall of Impax Asset Management LLC: A Comparison of Q1 and Q2 2018 Holdings

Impax Asset Management LLC, a leading investment manager in the sustainable investments market, experienced some significant changes in holdings during the first and second quarters of 2018. Through a detailed comparison of these two periods, we can gain some insights into the fund's investment strategies and portfolio performance.

One notable trend is that some of the top holdings underwent significant changes. For instance, Microsoft Corp (MSFT) and Amazon.com Inc (AMZN) had increased shares in the second quarter, with a percentage change of 10.1% and 4.5%, respectively. However, Home Depot Inc (HD) had suffered a significant decrease in shares in the same period, with a negative percentage change of 3.4%. The latter suggests a shift in the fund's investment focus, possibly away from the retail sector to more tech and online-based investments.

Another trend was that some holdings experienced a substantial percentage change in value, which could indicate either gains or losses. For example, Lilly Eli & Co (LLY) had an extraordinary change in value, with a positive percentage increase of 1,767.7%. On the other hand, Zoetis Inc (ZTS) had suffered a significant decline, with a negative percentage decrease of 38.6%. Such changes could be explained by factors such as corporate performance, market conditions, or changes in the fund's investment strategy.

Interestingly, some holdings remained stable in both periods, indicating a long-term investment approach. For instance, Stanley Black & Decker Inc (SWK) had the same number of shares in Q1 and Q2, while Thermo Fisher Scientific Inc (TMO) remained relatively stable both in the number of shares and the value. Such holdings can be seen as a safe and secure investment option, shielding the fund from market fluctuations.

Furthermore, some holdings had zero shares in Q1 but suddenly appeared in Q2, such as Royal Gold Inc (RGLD) and Hanover Insurance Group Inc (THG). Such changes could be attributed to the fund's investment strategy, which is dynamic and responsive to changes in market trends.

In conclusion, the Q1 and Q2 comparison of Impax Asset Management LLC holdings indicates both stability and volatility in the fund's investment approach. It's essential to keep an eye on the developments and changes in the portfolio, given the fund's focus on sustainable investments and its impact in this growing market.