Emerging markets are now firmly at the centre of investors’ portfolios, but opinion remains divided as how best to harness the rapid growth seen across the developing world

Domestic and international groups are boosting their operations across Asia, but both agree that local knowledge is imperative

As real estate becomes more global, investors must be careful how best to gain exposure, particularly when looking at non-core properties, which carry an element of risk but are attractively priced at present

China’s rapidly expanding economy is constantly evolving, and investors must manage this transition from an export-led to a more diversified, consumer-driven market

The increasing demand for luxury brands and an ageing global population are two long-term trends that thematic funds are looking to target.

Germany is leading northern Europe out of recession while the south continues to suffer from debt issues, but it is a company’s links to emerging markets that is catching investors’ attention.

Recent unanticipated events have added weight to the argument in favour of short-term tactical investing, though many still prefer to take a long-term approach, writes Roxane McMeeken

In this article, Mike Sell, Director Emerging Markets at F&C, explains why he is positive on the outlook for China as an investment destination and highlights some of his other top picks in the emerging markets.