A new survey by Greenwich Associates indicates that investors see exchange-traded funds as an increasingly effective tool to access Asian fixed income. The liquidity of the products is a particular draw.
Weaker emerging market currencies have hit investors who allowed bond managers to talk up the returns of local currency bonds. To get a full view of the damage, look back two years.
The private equity giant aims to extend its private lending activities and is also eyeing property investments as it seeks opportunities for its $6 billion Asia-focused fund.
The $1.2 trillion state pension fund hires eight firms to manage overseas stocks, and is finalising domestic equity mandates. It comes after record losses in domestic bonds.
Indonesia and India face structural obstacles to economic growth from the double whammy of weaker currencies and high oil prices. Lack of fuel subsidy reform is holding both back.
The withdrawal of investment banks as market-makers could cause problems if bond investors rush for the exits amid QE tapering, but BlueBay sees continued flows.
“I am well aware of the dangers of proclaiming the death of an asset class,” says James Montier at GMO, who does so anyway, advising higher cash holdings.
The emerging markets specialist may launch a dedicated A-share fund and set up an onshore presence, even though its Asia chief admits Chinese equities are a minefield.