Despite the falls seen across emerging markets in September, Jonathan Asante, manager of the First State Global Emerging Markets Leaders fund, has remained confident. "The fund is defensively positioned, invested in businesses with quality franchises and managements with strong track records."
The fund's cumulative performance of 67% over three years is a boon for Asante, who took over as the fund's lead manager two years ago. That job was previously held by star manager Angus Tulloch. The fund has returned nearly double that of its emerging markets benchmark, which posted a 36% gain over the same period.
Subscribe to MoneyWeek
Subscribe to MoneyWeek today and get your first six magazine issues absolutely FREE
Sign up to Money Morning
Don't miss the latest investment and personal finances news, market analysis, plus money-saving tips with our free twice-daily newsletter
Don't miss the latest investment and personal finances news, market analysis, plus money-saving tips with our free twice-daily newsletter
"The events in the Middle East and North Africa are a reminder that emerging markets can be volatile, but longer-term prospects remain encouraging," Mark Dampier, head of research at Hargreaves Lansdown, commented earlier this year. Dampier likes companies with strong balance sheets and the ability to pass on rising costs. "In this environment, we think [the managers'] cautious approach should prove rewarding."
Contact: 020-7332 6500.
Emerging Markets LeadersFund top ten holdings
| Taiwan Semiconductor | 5.1% |
| Hong Kong & China Gas | 4.7% |
| AngloGold Ashanti | 3.6% |
| Anheuser-Busch | 3.6% |
| Samsung Fire & Marine | 3.6% |
| Hindustan Unilever | 3.4% |
| SABMiller | 3.1% |
| Uni-President Enterprises | 3% |
| E-Mart | 3% |
| Tiger Brands | 2.8% |
-
How to pay in a chequeReceiving or writing a cheque has become much less common in recent years as instant bank transfers have grown in popularity. Amid widespread bank branch closures, we explain what to do if you get a cheque, and how you can pay one into your bank account.
-
Crypto assets of seven million UK investors at risk – how to keep yours safeCryptocurrency wallet rules make it hard to track down assets after someone has died, even if they leave a will saying who they would like to inherit them
