Ineke Valke of Theodoor Gilissen and BlackRock’s Jeff Shen discuss the role emerging markets should be playing in portfolios
Americas & Caribbean

US economy edging back towards normal
US stockmarkets have had a shaky start to the year but fund managers remain convinced that the economic recovery will continue and equities should do well

Radical change for factors shaping emerging market growth
Fears over falling growth rates and the end of QE have made investors wary of emerging markets, but these economies should receive a boost as the developed world recovers

Currency volatility central to portfolio performance
The Fed’s potential tapering of quantitative easing is just one reason why it is vital portfolios are hedged against currency risk, while private investors can benefit from fluctuations

Citi senses opportunity in rise of next generation
Citi’s Catherine Weir believes the vast wealth due to be passed from one generation to the next over the coming decade presents a huge opportunity for family offices and wealth managers

Rout subsides to reveal opportunities in emerging market bonds
Emerging market bonds have always been volatile and the Fed’s comments about the end of QE saw large numbers of retail investors flee the asset class. But there is a sense the market overreacted and the sell off has created a buying opportunity
Banking stocks back on the menu
High net worth individuals appear to have finally overcome their fear of banking stocks, but allocations to the financial sector are very selective with US groups much more appealing than their European counterparts
Swiss moves over bank secrecy could go global
Switzerland’s suspension of secrecy laws suggests global cooperation over tax strategy is possible, but wealth managers need to raise their game if they are to guide clients through this new world
North America back on top as wealth rebounds
North America and Asia-Pacific have led global levels of wealth to new highs, while indications are that high net worth individuals favour a streamlined approach to management

Carnival spirit could turn Brazil’s fortunes around
The Brazilian stockmarket has endured a torrid time of late, but the economy has good long-term growth prospects