Hard currency shortages hinder international business activity by obstructing the exchange of goods and services. We evaluate the risk of hard currency shortages in Egypt, Nigeria, Bangladesh, and Argentina. In Egypt, positive changes in foreign currency availability occurred, while Nigeria’s external position improved due to various factors. Bangladesh and Argentina face persistent hard currency shortages with potential risks.
Increased reserves of crude oil in Namibia have led to a surge in demand for Namibian assets, particularly local government bonds. The discovery has attracted attention from major international energy companies, with the country’s Exchange Traded Fund (ETF) tracking local government bonds experiencing a significant increase. Anticipation is high for potential economic policy changes following the upcoming presidential election.
China’s economic challenges present long-term opportunities. Despite concerns over the property sector and economic growth, policy easing and currency internationalization suggest potential in Chinese corporate bonds. With benign inflation and room for further rate cuts, along with a two-speed economy and strong policy easing prospects, China’s credit market offers promising opportunities for investors.
The recent sell-off affected emerging markets, prompting fund outflows. However, signs of recovery are emerging, making it an opportune time to consider the iShares Core MSCI Emerging Markets ETF (IEMG). With a low expense ratio of 0.09%, it provides exposure to promising countries like India and Taiwan, offering a diversified and cost-efficient investment option.
India’s inclusion in J.P. Morgan’s GBI-EM local currency indices could attract foreign investment and support economic progress. Despite high debt levels, India’s strong GDP growth and digital advancements have improved financial inclusion and tax revenues. Foreign investors will monitor fiscal deficit progress. India’s potential for reform, growth momentum, and fiscal stability support a constructive outlook.
The potential implications of a second Donald Trump administration for emerging markets (EM) debt are currently under scrutiny. Despite uncertainties, expectations point to continued policies on interest rates, taxes, trade, regulation, energy, and foreign aid. These could lead to varied impacts on inflation, global growth, and liquidity conditions. EM sovereign debt and U.S. Treasury yields may be affected.
Emerging markets (EM) debt performance was lackluster in Q2, but a stronger second half is expected due to resilient economic growth, lower global rates, and improved global liquidity. Key opportunities for investors include long-duration securities, high-yield credit, and countries with easier access to funding. Active positions in high-beta, medium-beta, and low-beta buckets are detailed.
China’s recent Third Plenum disappointed markets with a lack of near-term stimulus, focusing on balancing economic dichotomies and addressing risks. The reforms aim to transition growth drivers, manage local government debt, and level the playing field for state-owned and private enterprises. Implementation challenges remain, impacting investment implications on government bonds and the yuan.
India’s consumer internet sector presents a compelling investment opportunity, driven by supportive infrastructure, favorable regulations, and a burgeoning startup ecosystem. Contrasting with China’s concentrated market, India’s fragmented landscape and hands-off regulatory approach offer diverse investment prospects. With outperformance in tech companies since 2022, India appears as an attractive destination for digital investments, supported by a thriving ecosystem.
The Biden administration plans to increase tariffs on Chinese electric vehicles, solar panels, and batteries for EVs, aiming to protect the American clean-energy industry. Although this move could impact the Chinese EV sector, its effect is expected to be limited. China may respond with retaliatory tariffs on U.S. EVs and agricultural exports, potentially impacting global markets and U.S. automakers.
Recent data suggests that the U.S. consumer is facing challenges, with issues such as declining wage growth, reduced savings, and slowing discretionary spending. This, coupled with concerns about interest rates and inflation, may prompt investors to consider diversifying into emerging markets. American Century Investments’ Avantis offers ETF options like AVEM and AVXC to address this situation.
The article evaluates the Schwab Emerging Markets Equity ETF (SCHE), noting its under-performance and unattractive prospects due to high exposure to China and Taiwan. With better opportunities in developed markets and concerns about elevated interest rates, the outlook for SCHE is downgraded to “hold.” The recommendation is to approach new positions in SCHE selectively.
Alibaba Group Holding Limited (NYSE:BABA) is undervalued by traditional financial metrics but faces substantial political risk due to the Chinese government’s crackdown on private company ownership. This risk makes it an unsuitable long-term investment, despite strong financials. The stock’s performance relies heavily on political changes in China. Ultimately, it is not a recommended buy.
NetEase, a diverse technology company, derives nearly 80% of its revenue from gaming. Q4 revenue rose 7% to $3.8 billion, driven by successful game launches. With a focus on mobile gaming and international expansion, NetEase has potential for growth. While regulatory concerns persist, its robust game portfolio provides stability but uncertainties remain.
