Portfolio construction based primarily on intensive bottoms up research with a top down backdrop. Generating stock ideas via extensive due diligence on prospective investments via financial statement analysis, SEC filings, management one on one meetings, consultants, store visits, overall history with the group and company headquarter visits. Alpha generation comes from stock selection, not market direction or timing. Continuous fieldwork with constant communication with suppliers, distributors, sales people, trade shows to understand current business trends and the ability to forecast future trends.