As referenced in the International lead letter this quarter, businesses with exposure to the U.K. real estate market detracted from Fund performance. In line with this, the largest detractor to performance was Countrywide, U.K.’s largest property services group. Following the Brexit vote, Countrywide (LSE:CWD) shares fell by 30% by the close of the quarter. We believe Countrywide is a high-quality business, but U.K. real estate transactions are likely to decline since consumers will probably be reluctant to make large, life-changing decisions in such an uncertain environment. A recovery in the U.K. housing market will benefit Countrywide significantly, but this looks unlikely in the near term. We will continue to monitor the developments in the U.K. and adjust our estimate of intrinsic value if warranted.
From David Herro (Trades, Portfolio)'s Oakmark International Small Cap Fund second quarter 2016 commentary.
