One of the best times to go shopping for high-quality businesses is when the market is particularly volatile.
We've seen that volatility recently. After a solid rally which saw the S&P/ASX 200 (Index: ^AXJO) (ASX: XJO) rise over seven consecutive weeks, shares endured a sharp selloff which saw billions wiped from the market. The ASX 200 rose strongly again on Monday, but remains a few percent off its recent high levels.
The cause of much of this angst has been Brexit, which refers to the upcoming vote where it will be decided whether Britain stays in or exits the European Union. The outcome is too close to call at this point, creating plenty of uncertainty in the markets.
Now, you could argue that there is always something that the market is worried about, and you would be correct!
Occasionally, however, the market can get so caught up in an upcoming event that it causes more volatility than normal, which creates opportunities for those investors willing to look past the short-term noise of the market and look at the horizon instead.
The potential Brexit has arguably created such an opportunity.
One company that is worth a closer look is Retail Food Group Limited (ASX: RFG), which enjoys a strong and reliable source of revenue from its various food and coffee franchisees, whilst also offering a solid dividend. At $5.41, its shares are trading almost 10% below their recent peak and offer a compelling 4.6% fully franked dividend yield.
Another company worth keeping an eye on is Catapult Group International Ltd (ASX: CAT). Its shares aren't mind-blowingly cheap right now but are certainly worth keeping an eye on if shares do fall from here. The company provides the technology and hardware used for tracking and monitoring the performances of elite sports men and women around the world, while also helping many to avoid injuries. It's a high-growth field with room for plenty more growth, particularly outside of the elite level of sports.
Washington H. Soul Pattinson and Co. Ltd (ASX: SOL) is one of the oldest businesses listed on the ASX, having survived various market crashes as well as wars and epidemics. Run by a strong management team, this business is often considered to be Australia's closest version to Berkshire Hathaway, the US conglomerate run by Warren Buffett. A lower share price could certainly provide investors with an even greater reason to buy.
