During the quarter, we initiated a position in U.S. Silica Holdings Inc. (SLCA), a supplier of industrial-grade sand to the oil and gas markets. Silica (the technical name for this sand) is critical in the process of hydraulic fracturing, and in our view, mastering the logistics and transportation of this commodity constitutes a durable competitive advantage. We believe the market is underestimating the likely pace of growth in U.S. Silica's revenue and earnings over the next several years (as demand continues to meaningfully increase), as well as the attractive cash flow characteristics of the company's business.
From John Rogers' Ariel Funds third quarter 2013 commentary.
From John Rogers' Ariel Funds third quarter 2013 commentary.
